Extreme Heat May Speed Up Biological Ageing
A recent study indicates that repeated exposure to heatwaves can accelerate the ageing process, with effects similar to those from smoking, heavy drinking, poor diet, or sedentary lifestyles. Scientists warn that as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, billions of people could face long-term health consequences.
Research Tracks Heat Exposure and Health Impact
The study followed 25,000 adults in Taiwan over 15 years, analyzing their heatwave exposure against biological age, a measure of overall physiological health. Results showed that just four extra heatwave days over two years were associated with an increase of roughly nine days in biological age, while manual workers who spend more time outdoors experienced up to 33 days of accelerated ageing. Although the short-term effects appear modest, the cumulative impact over decades could significantly raise health risks.
Broader Implications for Global Health
Published in Nature Climate Change, the research assessed biological ageing using markers like blood pressure, inflammation, cholesterol, and organ function. The study found that prolonged heat exposure had the strongest effect on accelerated ageing, likely due to DNA damage. While protective behaviors such as air conditioning use and seeking shade reduced some effects, older and less healthy populations are likely at even higher risk. Experts stress that these findings highlight the urgent need to address heat exposure as a growing public health challenge.
