Simulated Indoor Overheating for Heat Stress
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore how different indoor humidity and temperature levels affect body heat and cardiovascular stress, particularly in older adults. Researchers will observe how humidity changes at a set temperature impact comfort and health. Participants will experience various indoor conditions (simulated indoor overheating) to determine if current guidelines require adjustment. The study seeks non-smokers aged 65 to 85 who have managed high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes for at least five years. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the opportunity to contribute to important research that could enhance indoor comfort and health guidelines for older adults.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop your current medications, but it mentions that changes in medication that make participation inadvisable could exclude you from the study. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the study team.
What prior data suggests that this protocol is safe for older adults?
Research has shown that older adults might find it harder to stay cool in hot indoor conditions. Their bodies must work harder to maintain a normal temperature in warm and humid environments. One study explored this by having participants spend a day in a warmer indoor setting. It found that older adults experienced more physical stress, but no serious health problems occurred.
Another report examined the effects of indoor heat and suggested that while it can be uncomfortable and stressful, the risk of serious health issues remains low if the heat exposure is brief and monitored. This study does not test a new drug or treatment; instead, it examines how being in a hot room affects the body.
Overall, spending a short time in a hot room appears manageable. Existing studies indicate no major safety concerns, suggesting that while it might be uncomfortable, it is generally safe for otherwise healthy individuals.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it's exploring how different indoor temperature and humidity combinations affect heat stress, which is a growing concern in the face of climate change. Unlike traditional studies that focus on outdoor heat exposure, this trial simulates indoor conditions, directly addressing environments where people spend most of their time. The trial investigates varying humidity levels at both standard and high indoor temperatures, offering insights into optimizing indoor climate settings to reduce heat stress risks. By understanding these interactions, researchers hope to develop guidelines that can improve comfort and safety indoors, especially during heatwaves.
What evidence suggests that this trial's conditions could impact heat stress in older adults?
Research has shown that high humidity can make it harder for both young and older adults to handle heat. Humidity prevents sweat from evaporating, which is how the body cools down. One study found that high humidity during a heatwave made it more difficult for people to cope with the heat. Another study found that higher indoor temperatures can cause health problems like a faster heartbeat and lower blood pressure. This trial will test various indoor conditions: one arm will expose participants to a recommended indoor temperature limit with low humidity, another to high temperature with normal humidity, and others to different combinations of temperature and humidity. These findings suggest that controlling both temperature and humidity is important for comfort and health, especially for older adults.46789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for non-smoking older adults aged 65-85 who can communicate in English or French and give informed consent. It includes those with chronic hypertension or type 2 diabetes diagnosed at least 5 years ago.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experimental Exposure
Participants are exposed to different indoor temperature and humidity conditions to assess physiological responses.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after exposure sessions
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Simulated indoor overheating
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Ottawa
Lead Sponsor