Clinical Research Directory

Preparing for Heat Waves - Enhancing Human Thermophysiological Resilience

Sponsor: Maastricht University Medical Center

Summary

As the ongoing progression of climate change exposes individuals to elevated temperatures and an escalating frequency of extreme heat events, the risk of more intense and prolonged heat waves raises significant concerns for public health, particularly among vulnerable populations. The physiological response to acute heat stress involves involuntary thermolytic reactions that may strain the cardiovascular system, especially in individuals with pre-existing vulnerabilities. Heat acclimation has been identified as a potential strategy to enhance thermoregulation and mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress. While existing research primarily focuses on athletes and military, this study aims to investigate the impact of a practical heat acclimation strategy, combining passive and active heat exposure, on thermophysiological, cardiovascular and metabolic parameters in healthy overweight adults. The study targets a population at increased risk for heat-related complications, seeking to provide realistic guidelines for broader application when a heat wave appears on the weather forecast.

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