A recent study published in Science Advances found that extreme heat exposure can accelerate cellular aging by 14 months faster than in people living in cooler climates. The research, led by Eun Young Choi, analyzed blood samples from over 3,600 people aged 56 and above who had participated in a national health study.
Researchers compared the participants’ age at the cellular level to their climate exposure, finding a consistent association between longer-term heat exposure and accelerated aging. People living in areas with temperatures above 90°F for half of the year experienced up to 14 months more biological aging than those living in cooler climates.
The study’s findings suggest that chronic exposure to high temperatures can have serious short- and long-term health consequences, including exacerbating existing conditions like kidney disease and cardiovascular issues. The researchers also found no significant differences between demographics, indicating that heat damages cells across the board in older individuals.
However, the study highlights the need for greater attention and care towards populations that are disproportionately affected by extreme heat, such as those living in urban areas with high temperatures, low-income residents, and marginalized communities.
As global average temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, understanding the effects of heat exposure on human aging is crucial. The researchers hope future studies will continue to investigate these differences and explore potential reversibility of age-related effects.
Source: https://gizmodo.com/extremely-hot-weather-can-age-you-as-much-as-smoking-2000570289