Miss King is a human sciences researcher at the University of Tasmania and is looking into the effects of extreme temperatures on the cardiovascular system. She is looking for 16 diabetics to participate in her study.

``The reason that we have done this study is all the evidence from around the world says there is a peak in heart attacks during winter, so there is a link between increased cold and an increase in heart attacks,'' Miss King said.

Miss King is particularly interested in diabetics because diabetics are prone to cardiovascular disease and the rate of diabetes in Tasmania is on the rise.

Her research is non-invasive and uses state-of-the-art technology called pulse wave analysis.

The machine then captures pulse waves which are analysed to determine, blood flow, velocity and pressure on the heart as they are exposed to different temperatures over five visits.

The coldest temperature is 12 degrees, the warmest 36 degrees with two other temperatures of varying humidity and a control of room temperature.

The data collected will be collated and referenced against a control group which has already been tested.

``From the results of the healthy participants we have definitely found, and this is with healthy people with no sign of heart dysfunction whatsoever, the blood pressure at the heart does increase with the cold,'' Miss King said.

Miss King expects to have the results of her research by June when she hopes they will be published in a scientific journal.

If you would like to participate or would like some more information please email Miss King at sibella.king@utas.edu.au or phone 6324 3688.