Using mobile sensing and wearable technologies to assess the impact of ambient temperature on mental health among low-income black women in Chicago: a study protocol

INTRODUCTION: Growing evidence suggests that higher ambient temperatures may increase the risk of mental health disorders and exacerbate existing conditions. Despite this, most studies evaluating the association between temperature and mental health rely on hospitalisation records or insurance claims data, which only capture the most severe outcomes. To effectively intervene to prevent mental health crises associated with ambient temperature, it is necessary to identify and develop novel ways to reach patients before they require care. Digital health tools offer a promising way to address these gaps, particularly in communities most affected by climate inequities. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This study aims to recruit 70 low-income black women from Chicago who are already enrolled in the Nutrition and Pregnancy Study for a 4-week longitudinal observational study. The primary objective is to examine how ambient temperature affects positive and negative affect (primary outcome), as well as sleep and physiologic markers. Over a 4-week summer period, participants will wear a smartwatch and complete ecological momentary assessment surveys three times daily. We will monitor indoor temperature and humidity using home-based sensors and link these data with wearable and self-reported mental health measures. Daily outdoor ambient temperature will also be linked. Statistical analyses will use mixed-effects longitudinal models with distributed lags to assess delayed and cumulative temperature effects. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board at the University of Chicago (IRB24-026). At the completion of the study, participants will have the option to receive a summary of their own data, with a plain-language summary of the study findings. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Dissemination efforts will also include engagement with local community stakeholders and public health partners to inform future climate and health efforts.