Q:
During the hot days of summer, is spending too much time
in air conditioned buildings bad for your health?
A:
Numerous institutions and scholars list air conditioning as
one of the greatest achievements of the 20th century. They are widely used in westernized countries
and global use is growing rapidly, but is it bad for you?
Below are the common positives and negatives impacts on
health:
•
Positive: Combat heat related illnesses (heat
stroke). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, air
conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness
and death. Age groups most susceptible
are children under 4 and adults over 65.
•
Positive: Helps manage allergies and asthma. Air
conditioning can help filter out airborne pollen. It also lowers indoor humidity, which in-turn
decreases the growth of dust mites or mold.
•
Negative: Mold and fungus. If regular
maintenance and air filter changes do not occur, air conditioning can be a
breeding ground for bacteria and fungus due to the moisture that accumulates in
the evaporator coils.
•
Negative: Weather acclimation/exercise. Never venturing out in hot weather will
prevent acclimation to the heat thus causing us to stay inside even more. The more time spent inside the more likely
the person is to be sedentary.
The following websites were used in answering the question: