Demographic Factors and Body Temperature Variability in a Diverse Community: Kean University Students
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Emily Jefferson
CoPIs:
Brian Rosen, Joseph Brodeur, Tyler Manlangit, Brian Chaballa, Eddie Mendez
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Physician Assistant Studies
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Wendy Ritch
Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: Body temperature is a vital physiological parameter that is often utilized in clinical settings to assess health status. However, existing temperature data may be influenced by various factors, including illness, environmental conditions, and individual demographics. This research aims to investigate the association between average body temperature and demographic factors among the diverse community of Kean University students.
OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this study is to explore the relationship between average body temperature and demographic variables such as age, race, ethnicity, and sex within the Kean University Community. Additionally, the study seeks to examine the correlation between body temperature and lifestyle factors, including commute time, employment status, exercise routines, sleep duration, and stress levels. By elucidating these relationships, the research aims to provide insight into the factors influencing body temperature variability in a diverse population.
METHODS: Data collection was conducted between 2/06/24-2/23/24 by recruiting voluntary participants at the Kean University library. Participants scanned a QR code with their mobile device to answer a 13 question demographic questionnaire. Their temporal temperature was then measured using the same infrared thermometer each time. Data analysis was done by using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine the statistical significance of the differences in mean temperature by race.
RESULTS: The study contained 100 Kean University students. By self-identification, this included 12 white males, 30 white females, 8 hispanic males, 16 hispanic females, 4 black males, 7 black females, 3 asian males, 6 asian females, 2 other males, and 3 other females. 9 surveys were excluded after failure to submit the response correctly. Hispanic males had the highest mean temperature of 98.95F, while Asian males had the lowest mean temperature of 96.86F. This variance was shown to be statistically significant with P= 0.00047, F=3.82.
CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that there is a significant difference between mean temperature by race in Kean University students. Hispanic males had the highest mean temperature, while Asian males had the lowest mean temperature. This study is limited by small sample size, and only examined the Kean student population. Further studies should be done to see if these racial differences in temperature are reflected nationally and globally in order to better understand human physiology and to treat diverse patient populations.