Cognitive Function in Tropical Climate

The physiological and psychological responses to environmental heat stress have been well established. However, in the tropical climate (i.e., hot: 31 ±2 °C and wet climatic environment: 75% ± 10% rH), that concerns millions of people, most studies deals with exercise: Aerobic exercise is negatively affected and the impact of this environment on cognition is unclear. This short communication reviews some studies using cognitive tasks realized in tropical climate or using environmental conditions leading heat stress. In agreement with the literature, it is suggested that, at school, office or university in tropical climates, it is preferable to study in air conditioning or naturally ventilated rooms than in hot and wet climatic conditions in order to reduce feelings of fatigue and thermal discomfort. Further investigations, using cooling or psychological training techniques are needed in order to try to limit the negatives effects of tropical climate on cognition.