Kim Kardashian's Longevity Device Draws Expert Scrutiny

Kim Kardashian has shifted her focus toward longevity and cellular health, embracing a centuries-old therapeutic device that has gained popularity among celebrities and athletes. However, health experts are cautioning against its use for anti-aging purposes, citing a lack of robust scientific evidence and potential safety concerns.

Kardashian recently shared her enthusiasm for "hyperbaric chambers," which involve breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment. This treatment is often promoted for benefits such as slowing aging, enhancing memory, and improving brain function. She joins a list of public figures, including Leann Rimes and Mayim Bialik, who have spoken about using hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy for various health and wellness goals.

Biohackers Gary Brecka and Bryan Johnson, known for their focus on life extension, have invested in personal hyperbaric chamber setups. Professional athletes like LeBron James and Michael Phelps have reportedly used hyperbaric therapy to aid recovery, and several Philadelphia major league sports teams have also utilized the treatment.

Despite the growing celebrity endorsement, Dr. Owen J. O’Neill, founding medical director of the Department of Undersea & Hyperbaric Medicine at Northwell’s Phelps Hospital, told The Post that the scientific evidence supporting the purported anti-aging and longevity benefits of HBO therapy is limited. While O'Neill acknowledged that hyperbaric oxygen can have real biological effects that stimulate healing and reduce inflammation, he stated that these effects do not equate to reversing aging or extending lifespan. He further noted that observed changes in biological markers do not necessarily translate to improved long-term health or longevity.

"For that reason, I would not recommend HBO₂ treatment to a healthy person simply for ‘anti-aging’ or longevity purposes," O’Neill said, emphasizing the need for larger, more rigorous studies.

Dangers of Unregulated Devices

The market includes a range of hyperbaric chambers, from medical-grade, hard-shell units to softer, portable devices marketed for home use. O'Neill strongly advises against the latter, citing concerns about their manufacturing standards and potential safety issues. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also issued warnings about the improper use of these devices and stressed the importance of using machines that meet established safety and engineering standards.

Differences between at-home and medical-grade chambers can be significant. Many portable units operate at lower pressures or use compressed air instead of 100% medical-grade oxygen, affecting the therapeutic dose delivered. The FDA has cleared hyperbaric oxygen therapy for a specific list of 14 medical conditions, including decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and non-healing wounds, but not for general wellness or anti-aging.

Safety concerns have been highlighted by incidents at private clinics. In 2025, a five-year-old boy died in a hyperbaric chamber fire at a Detroit clinic. Three staff members were subsequently charged in connection with the incident.

Experts recommend that if hyperbaric oxygen therapy is pursued, it should only be done in an FDA-approved medical chamber under the supervision of trained medical professionals. "Oxygen under pressure is considered a drug," O’Neill explained. "Like any drug, it has a proper dose, specific reasons for using it, situations in which it should not be used, possible and significant side effects."

Potential risks associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy include ear or sinus injuries, seizures, blood sugar fluctuations in diabetic patients, changes in blood pressure, and temporary vision disturbances. Claustrophobia and severe anxiety can also occur within the confined space of the chamber.