Which physiological factors can affect a diver's susceptibility to oxygen toxicity?

The duration of exposure and physical condition are critical factors when considering a diver's susceptibility to oxygen toxicity. The longer a diver is exposed to high concentrations of oxygen, the greater the risk of developing oxygen toxicity. This condition can result from prolonged breathing of oxygen-rich environments, particularly when diving at depths that increase the partial pressure of oxygen.

Physical condition also plays a significant role in how a diver's body responds to oxygen. Factors such as fitness level, pre-existing health conditions, and acclimatization can all influence an individual's tolerance to higher oxygen partial pressures. For instance, a diver with underlying respiratory issues may be at a higher risk for oxygen toxicity than a healthy diver, primarily because their ability to utilize oxygen may be compromised.

In contrast, aspects such as the depth of the dive and surface conditions, type of dive equipment, and water temperature do not directly correlate to oxygen toxicity susceptibility in the same way. While depth does influence oxygen partial pressure, it is the combination of duration and individual physical health that is crucial for understanding risk. Therefore, focusing on exposure time and the diver's physical state provides a clearer insight into the likelihood of encountering oxygen toxicity during diving activities.