Connecticut Lab Simulates Extreme Heat to Study Human Response
At the Korey Stringer Institute in Storrs, Connecticut, researchers are tackling the critical issue of heat exposure on human health by recreating scorching conditions for their studies. This specialized lab, located within a modern basketball arena, is dedicated to understanding how rising global temperatures impact various populations, from athletes to outdoor workers.
On a recent day, a participant experienced a treadmill exercise under intense heat, with the temperature reaching nearly 92 degrees Fahrenheit. As sweat dripped down their face, researchers monitored vital signs such as internal body temperature and heart rate. Chief Operating Officer Rebecca Stearns, an expert in heat-related illnesses, emphasized the importance of sweating, stating, “Sweat’s a good thing!”
The institute’s work has become increasingly vital as heat-related deaths and illnesses continue to rise. According to the National Weather Service, more people die from heat annually than from hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes combined. This stark reality underscores the urgency of their research, particularly as climate change drives temperatures higher.
The facility is named after Korey Stringer, a Minnesota Vikings football player who tragically died from heatstroke in 2001. His family’s settlement with the NFL provided funding for initiatives aimed at preventing heat-related illnesses. With a recent expansion, the lab is broadening its focus to include various groups at risk of heat stress, such as military personnel and delivery truck drivers.
Douglas Casa, a professor at the University of Connecticut and the institute’s CEO, noted, “Everything is just perpetually getting hotter, but technology is also getting better.” He highlighted the unique challenges faced by workers, who often endure long shifts in extreme conditions, unlike athletes who typically train for shorter durations.
Inside the lab, the environment resembles a standard gym, featuring treadmills and stationary bikes. However, specialized equipment, including solar radiation lamps and advanced medical devices, allows researchers to replicate diverse heat and humidity conditions. The temperature can be adjusted from -20 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, while humidity levels can range from 20% to 90%.
During the tests, participants underwent a series of assessments, starting with a hydration check and body mass measurement. They were then equipped with an internal thermometer and heart monitor before engaging in physical activity. This comprehensive approach allows researchers to evaluate how hydration affects performance and temperature regulation.
In one scenario, the temperature was set to a manageable 70 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the heat test, it spiked to 93 degrees. After a brief workout, participants experienced cooling breaks with ice-cold towels, showcasing the lab’s commitment to safety and effective monitoring.
Stearns explained the importance of the wet bulb globe temperature, a measure that accounts for various factors such as humidity and sunlight exposure. She noted that high humidity levels hinder sweat evaporation, complicating the body’s ability to cool itself.
As the test progressed, participants reported increased sweating and heart rates, with researchers closely monitoring for signs of heat exhaustion. Stearns reassured that immediate intervention would occur if any alarming symptoms arose.
The findings revealed critical insights into hydration’s role in managing heat stress. Initial tests indicated that dehydration significantly affected the participant’s body temperature response. When adequately hydrated, internal temperatures were much lower, highlighting the necessity of maintaining proper fluid levels during heat exposure.
This research will contribute to ongoing studies aimed at protecting workers from heat-related illnesses. The lab has collaborated with various corporate partners, including UPS and Delta Air Lines, and is also involved with the Department of Defense to enhance heat acclimatization strategies.
In 2021, the lab led research that outlined protective measures for U.S. workers, advocating for designated rest and hydration areas in workplaces. As new regulations emerge, including a Biden administration proposal for mandatory water and rest breaks during extreme heat, the institute’s work remains at the forefront of this critical public health issue.
With ongoing research contributing to over 400 peer-reviewed articles, the Korey Stringer Institute plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by extreme heat. As the world continues to grapple with rising temperatures, the insights gained from this lab will be invaluable in protecting human health and safety.
