Scientific Programme

Physiology & Nutrition

IS-PN05 - Effects of environmental heat stress on human performance and health across the lifecourse

Date: 03.07.2025, Time: 15:15 - 16:30, Session Room: Arco

Description

The effects of environmental heat stress on physiological functions (in particular, cardiovascular and muscle functions) and its associated consequences on sport performances have largely been investigated in young adults. Epidemiological data have indicated that children and older people are vulnerable to heat. Yet comparatively little research has examined physiological responses to environmental heat stress to fully elucidate its impact on performance and health in young and older populations. With temperatures rising across the globe and people of all ages exposed more commonly to hot and extreme temperatures, it is imperative that those promoting and delivering physical activity for health or exercise for performance understand differences in physiological responses/adaptations to environmental heat stress at various stages of the lifecourse. The aim of this symposium is therefore to present the latest research on the impact of environmental heat stress on the performance and health of young people (i.e. children and adolescents), young adults (focusing here on a widely understudied organ, i.e. the lungs) and older adults.