Your body may be aging more quickly than you realize if you live in an area where temperatures frequently reach 90°F or greater. According to a recent study that was published in Science Advances, exposure to intense heat on a regular basis may increase your biological age by up to 14 months.
Over a six-year period, researchers from the University of Southern California examined blood samples from more than 3,600 persons nationwide. They discovered that heat and humidity hasten cellular aging using epigenetic clocks, which are scientific instruments that track molecular changes in the body. Accordingly, residing in a hotter area may raise your chance of developing long-term conditions including diabetes and heart disease.
The results draw attention to the hidden risks of excessive heat that go beyond the common ones of heatstroke and dehydration. Experts fear that when global temperatures rise due to climate change, more people will experience early aging and associated health issues.
What can you do, then, to keep yourself safe? Scientists advise adopting cooling techniques like fans or air conditioning, staying hydrated, and looking for shade. In order to help people deal with the rising heat, urban planners are also advising towns to make investments in enhanced cooling systems, reflective roofing, and green spaces.
Understanding the long-term effects of heat is essential, even though most people may not be able to relocate to a cooler area. Therefore, the next time you go outside on a hot day, keep in mind that it’s not just about avoiding the heat; it’s about preserving your health for the long run.
