A recent study conducted by Prof. Lewis Halsey and his team from the University of Roehampton in London suggests that the upper critical temperature for humans may be between 40°C (104°F) and 50°C (122°F). The study, which will be presented at the SEB Centenary Conference in Edinburgh, Scotland, explores how higher temperatures affect the body's metabolic rate and the potential implications for various groups of people.
According to Dr. Daniel Atkinson, a GP Clinical Lead, increased temperatures lead to an increase in metabolic rate, causing the body to work harder to maintain normal functions. This finding has implications for workers, athletes, travelers, and medical practitioners. The study builds on previous research that showed a 35% increase in metabolic rate at 40 degrees and a further 13% increase at 50 degrees.
The research also highlights differences in heart function between men and women in response to heat. Women experience a more pronounced increase in heart rate and a reduction in the contraction of the heart muscle when blood is pumped out. The study further investigates the relationship between different characteristics and changes in metabolic rate and heart function.
Extreme heat can have detrimental effects on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those with limited access to cooling resources. Exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses ranging from mild to life-threatening, exacerbating existing heart and respiratory conditions. Heatstroke, the most severe form of heat-related illness, can cause a high body temperature, altered mental state, and lack of sweating, potentially resulting in death.
To protect oneself from extreme heat, experts recommend staying hydrated, wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, staying indoors during the hottest times of the day, keeping homes and workplaces well-ventilated, and avoiding intense exercise. It is also crucial to be aware of local weather forecasts and heat advisories and to monitor the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
In conclusion, understanding the upper critical temperature for humans and the effects of extreme heat on the body is essential for protecting public health. The findings of this study contribute important insights into how individuals and communities can mitigate the risks associated with rising temperatures due to climate change.