Author(s) :

Faith Koh.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on sex differences in thermoregulatory responses during exercise, with specific application to athletes training in Singapore’s hot-humid climate. The review examines physiological mechanisms underlying sex-based differences in sweating, cutaneous vasodilation, and hormonal influences on thermal regulation. Evidence indicates that males generally exhibit higher sweat rates and earlier sweating onset, whereas females demonstrate lower sweat output per gland despite higher gland density, with additional thermoregulatory variability introduced by menstrual cycle phases. In hot-humid environments characteristic of Singapore, reduced evaporative cooling efficiency may attenuate these sex differences, as high ambient humidity limits heat dissipation regardless of sweat production capacity. This review evaluates Singapore’s athletic heat stress frameworks, particularly Sport Singapore’s Heat Stress Management Plan, identifying gaps in sexspecific provisions. Recommendations include individualized hydration guidelines based on sweat rates, educational initiatives regarding menstrual cycle effects on thermoregulation, and Singapore-specific research to validate laboratory findings in field conditions.