Effects of Cool Roofs on Health in Niue
A Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial (cRCT) Evaluating the Effects of Cool Roofs on Health, Environmental and Economic Outcomes in Niue
This study is testing if special cool roof coatings can lower indoor temperatures and improve health for families in Niue who are struggling with extreme heat.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 800 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Auckland, New Zealand Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Auckland) |
| Trial ID | NCT06570993 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the impact of sunlight-reflecting cool roof coatings on indoor temperatures and health outcomes in Niue, a Pacific Island facing extreme heat due to climate change. By applying these coatings to single-story homes with metal roofs, the research aims to reduce heat exposure and improve conditions related to cardiovascular health, blood glucose control, depression, and heat-related illnesses. The study targets households that are particularly vulnerable due to poor housing conditions and aims to provide empirical evidence for passive housing adaptations that can enhance community resilience against heat stress.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are consenting adults aged 18 and over living in single-story homes with metal roofs in Niue.
Not a fit: Patients living in unstable or significantly damaged homes that cannot accommodate cool roof materials will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the health and wellbeing of residents in Niue by reducing heat-related health issues.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited empirical evidence on the effectiveness of cool roofs in low-resource settings, similar interventions have shown promise in other regions, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Participant criteria: * Consenting adults aged 18 years and over. * Expected to be available to participate in the study for at least nine months in the next 12 months. Household criteria: * House has a metal roof. * House is single-story. Exclusion Criteria: Household criteria: * Unstable house structure that does not permit the application of cool roof materials. * Inaccessible by the research team. * Significant roof damage defined as any penetrative roof defect that results in a hole in the roof OR over 25% of the roof rusted.
Where this trial is running
Auckland
- University of Auckland — Auckland, Niue (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Collin Tukuitonga, Sir. Dr. — University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Study coordinator: Aditi Bunker, Dr
- Email: aditi.bunker@uni-heidelberg.de
- Phone: +49 (0) 6221 56-5040
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.