Grantee Research Project Results
Air conditioning and heat-related health effects.
Citation:
O'Neill MS. Air conditioning and heat-related health effects. Applied Environmental Science and Public Health 2003;1(1):9-12.
Abstract:
The Earth's climate is expected to continue a warming trend over the next decades, resulting in increased frequency of hot weather and potentially negative effects on human health as a result. Air conditioning has been cited as a preventive intervention strategy in several research reports. This article discusses the evidence regarding air conditioning and heat-related health effects and raises questions about the broader implications of recommending widespread use of this technology. Potential drawbacks of air conditioning, including equity concerns, energy use and indoor air quality, are described. Finally, approaches are suggested that could advance the dual goals of slowing the pace of climate change while still protecting vulnerable populations from the health consequences of increasing global temperatures.The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.