Is it true or false that diving with nitrox completely eliminates the risk of decompression sickness?

Diving with nitrox does not completely eliminate the risk of decompression sickness (DCS). While nitrox—particularly mixes containing a higher percentage of oxygen such as EANx32 or EANx36—can reduce the risk of DCS compared to diving with air due to its lower nitrogen content, it does not remove the risk entirely.

Decompression sickness occurs when nitrogen, which is absorbed by the body during dives, forms bubbles as divers ascend and the pressure decreases. Since nitrox still contains nitrogen, divers can still absorb nitrogen and are still subject to DCS, especially if they do not follow safe diving practices, such as adhering to no-decompression limits or undergoing appropriate ascent procedures.

Therefore, while nitrox can offer certain advantages—like longer bottom times at specific depths and reduced nitrogen load—it's crucial to recognize that safety in diving is multifaceted, involving proper planning, understanding individual physiology, and strict adherence to diving protocols regardless of the gas mixture used.