Over 400 people have died attempting to climb Mount Everest since records began. Estimates generally cite around 300 to 405 deaths. The causes include avalanches, falls, exposure, frostbite, altitude sickness, and health problems related to the extreme environment. A significant hazard is the "death zone" above 8,000 meters, where oxygen levels are too low to sustain human life for long, leading to rapid deterioration and death without supplemental oxygen. Many bodies remain on the mountain due to difficult recovery conditions. In recent years, annual deaths have ranged from about 4 to 18, with 2023 being particularly deadly with 18 fatalities. The count could increase with ongoing climbs as risks persist.