Electric Fans Ineffective for lowering core body temperatures of elderly in Extreme Heat: JAMA
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Researchers have established that electric fans did not reduce core body temperatures of elderly individuals under extreme heat indoors, especially as temperature increased to 33°C and beyond. A recent study was published in the journal JAMA Network by Fergus K. and colleagues.
Electric fans have been suggested as an inexpensive means to reduce heat stress among very elderly individuals aged 65 and older, especially based on earlier biophysical modeling and works in younger adults. This study was designed to determine the effect of exposure to an electric fan on core temperature and heart rate in older adults who were exposed to indoor temperatures similar to those during recent North American deadly heat waves.
The subjects (≥65 years) were exposed to high indoor temperatures of more than 33°C, simulating conditions that are usually experienced during a heat wave. The core temperature and heart rate of the participants were recorded throughout the exposure period while measuring the impact of electric fans use. This would measure if fans can limit the rise in core body temperature and provide cardiovascular relief under such extreme conditions.
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