Bum Breathing: A New Hope for Failing Lungs?

Researchers are investigating a groundbreaking medical approach where oxygen could be administered rectally, a concept termed 'bum breathing.' This innovative idea stems from observations of animals absorbing oxygen through various bodily parts and the rich blood vessel network within the human intestinal tract.

Initial animal studies and a preliminary human trial on 27 men in Japan demonstrated that individuals could tolerate the procedure, although some experienced minor abdominal discomfort and bloating. The next phase will focus on verifying if oxygen can successfully reach the bloodstream through this method.

Should this rectal oxygen therapy prove effective, it could serve as a vital emergency measure, particularly during ambulance transport or critical medical procedures, offering a temporary boost in oxygen when traditional ventilators are unavailable or difficult to implement.