A Preliminary Study Assessing the Effectiveness of a 26 6C Indoor Temperature Limit on Physiological Responses in Children

What this Trial Is About

Children are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses than adults due to less efficient body temperature control and difficulty noticing early heat stress signs. This trial evaluates whether keeping indoor temperatures at 26 6C with 45% humidity, a limit recommended for older adults, can reduce physical strain and cognitive decline in children aged 10 to 15 during simulated daylong heatwaves. The study aims to fill gaps in understanding how heat affects children's health, especially as climate change increases heat exposure. Participants experience two conditions in a randomized, single-blind setup: one with indoor temperature maintained at 26 6C and another at 36 6C, both with 45% humidity. Each exposure lasts six hours, mimicking a typical school day. During this time, children wear light clothing and perform 15 minutes of stepping exercise each hour except lunch, simulating normal school activity levels. During the study, children remain seated mostly at rest while researchers monitor various measures including peak core temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, hydration status, mood states, cognitive functions like memory and impulse control, and balance. Assessments occur at the start and end of the exposure, with fluid consumption and loss recorded. This detailed monitoring aims to understand how indoor temperature limits impact children's physiological and cognitive responses during heat exposure.

Impact of Indoor Overheating on Physiological Strain in Children