New research from the US has revealed that prolonged exposure to extreme heat may have more effect than just making you sweat. If you have ever seen people who go out in the sun all the time and don’t wear sunscreen to protect themselves, their skin gets wrinkly relatively young. However, these are also not the effects of extreme heat we’re talking about exposure to heat adding years to the biological aging process in older adults. Are you curious to discover why? Then keep reading!
Heat, Epigenetics, and Aging
It turns out that extreme heat can alter the way our genes express themselves. Scientists have discovered that heat stress triggers epigenetic changes, particularly through DNA methylation. In simple terms, this process changes how cells operate without altering the underlying genetic code. Over time, these modifications make our cells less efficient, effectively speeding up the aging process. The study suggests that older adults, who already experience natural declines in cellular function, might see their bodies age more rapidly when subjected to sustained heat.
While the idea of “aging faster” might sound like a science fiction plot, the underlying biology is very real. These subtle shifts accumulate over time, adding what the study estimates as over two additional years of biological aging in those exposed to prolonged heat. This isn’t just about looking older; it’s about the functional decline of our organs and tissues, potentially affecting everything from energy levels to immune responses.
Implications for a Warming World With Extreme Heat
These findings highlight a bigger public health issue with climate change driving more frequent and intense heat waves. Vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, could be at increased risk of accelerated aging and its associated health complications.
As cities and communities plan for a hotter future, strategies to mitigate heat exposure—like better urban planning, cooling centers, and public awareness campaigns—will be essential in protecting our health. The study serves as a stark reminder that the effects of climate change extend deep into our biology, influencing how quickly we age.
