University of Ottawa research exposed 12 volunteers to a temperature of 42°C and 57% humidity to investigate the body's heat tolerance limits.
New Delhi: With rapidly changing weather patterns across the country, intense heat waves are imminent. Researchers warn that human tolerance to extreme heat may be lower than previously thought. This information can help understand human heat tolerance limits globally and adapt cities to a changing climate.
University of Ottawa's New Research
A University of Ottawa study exposed 12 volunteers to extreme heat and high humidity. The study aimed to understand which temperature and humidity levels affect the human body's thermoregulation system and at what point body temperature becomes unstable. Participants were exposed to 42°C and 57% humidity, equivalent to approximately 62°C humidex (perceived temperature).
What Does the Research Data Indicate?
Lead researcher Robert D. Mead from the University of Ottawa reported clear results. Participants' body temperatures steadily increased, and many could not endure the heat for nine hours. This data provides the first direct validation of the ‘thermal step protocol,’ used for nearly 50 years to estimate the upper limits of human heat tolerance.
Research on Rising Temperatures
Published in the 'Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,' the study predicted that reaching a core body temperature of 40.2°C would take approximately 10 hours, indicative of heat stroke. The research involved gradually exposing individuals to increasing temperatures and humidity in a controlled manner to analyze the body's heat tolerance capacity.
Future Implications of This Research
Researchers believe this study can improve understanding of human heat tolerance limits, leading to better health policies and public safety measures. This research will help prepare governments and administrations for the dangers of extreme heat.
Increasing Impact of Heat and Humidity
According to the study, experiencing extreme heat and humidity is becoming more common due to climate change. Professor Glen Kenny, a physiology professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa and co-lead researcher, stated that integrating climate models and physiological data allows for better prediction and preparation for heat-related health problems.
Significant Impact on South Asia
Another study led by King's College London estimates that extreme heat conditions may be intolerable for young adults across approximately 6% of the world's landmass, with older people facing even greater risk. Published in 'Nature Reviews Earth & Environment,' this research indicates South Asia is likely to be among the most affected regions.
