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A Review of the Relation between Household Indoor Temperature and Health Outcomes

Author

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  • Fátima Lima

    (Faculty of Engineering (FEUP), University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal)

  • Paula Ferreira

    (ALGORITMI Research Centre, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Azurém, 4800-058 Guimarães, Portugal)

  • Vítor Leal

    (Faculty of Engineering (FEUP), University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal)

Abstract

This paper provides a review of research that addresses the relationship between indoor temperatures and health outcomes, taking into consideration studies that focus heat or cold exposure within the household context. It aims to extend previous research by considering both indoor temperatures from existing housing, and empirical studies that focus on energy efficiency measures and subsequent health impacts. To achieve this aim, a literature review was undertaken, combining engineering and health databases. The review established that, overall, inadequate indoor temperatures are associated with poor health status, whereas energy efficiency measures have been associated to improved indoor temperatures and occupant’s health namely regarding cardiovascular, respiratory and mental health disorders. These health conditions are among the most prevalent non-communicable diseases (NCD). The review also highlighted the need for more empirical studies with an extended timeframe to deal with climate change challenges. It underlined the potential advantages of the convergence between health and energy efficiency studies, for better modelling and planning.

Suggested Citation

  • Fátima Lima & Paula Ferreira & Vítor Leal, 2020. "A Review of the Relation between Household Indoor Temperature and Health Outcomes," Energies, MDPI, vol. 13(11), pages 1-24, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:13:y:2020:i:11:p:2881-:d:367517
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Liu, Gang & Chen, Huizhen & Yuan, Ye & Song, Chenge, 2024. "Indoor thermal environment and human health: A systematic review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 191(C).
    2. Vítor Leal, 2021. "Buildings Energy Efficiency and Innovative Energy Systems," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(16), pages 1-5, August.
    3. Pedro J. Zarco-Periñán & Irene M. Zarco-Soto & Fco. Javier Zarco-Soto & Rafael Sánchez-Durán, 2021. "Influence of Population Income on Energy Consumption for Heating and Its CO 2 Emissions in Cities," Energies, MDPI, vol. 14(15), pages 1-18, July.

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