Heatwaves may speed up the ageing process in people: Study
As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, a new study has shed light on another alarming consequence: heatwaves may accelerate the ageing process in people. The research, published in the prestigious journal Nature, suggests that long-term exposure to heatwaves can have a profound impact on our biological age.
According to the study, individuals who were exposed to four additional heatwave days over a two-year period aged biologically by around nine days. This may seem like a relatively small increase, but it could have significant implications for our overall health and wellbeing.
The research, led by scientists at the Barcelona Institute for Global Health, analyzed data from over 3,500 participants in the UK Biobank study. The participants were monitored for two years, during which time they were exposed to varying levels of heatwaves.
The study revealed that manual workers, who spend more time outdoors, were strongly affected by heatwaves. Their biological age increased by a staggering 33 days, compared to just 2.5 days for office workers who spend most of their time indoors.
So, what exactly does this mean? Biological age is a measure of the rate at which our cells age, rather than our chronological age. It’s a complex process that’s influenced by a range of factors, including lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors.
The study suggests that heatwaves may accelerate the ageing process by triggering a range of negative physiological responses. These include increased inflammation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage, which can all contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
The researchers also found that the impact of heatwaves on biological age was most pronounced in people who were already experiencing high levels of stress and fatigue. This suggests that heatwaves may be particularly damaging to individuals who are already vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
But what can we do to mitigate the effects of heatwaves on our biological age?
First and foremost, it’s essential to take steps to stay cool and hydrated during heatwaves. This includes staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, wearing light and loose clothing, and drinking plenty of water.
It’s also important to take steps to reduce our exposure to heatwaves in the first place. This includes investing in cooling systems for our homes and workplaces, and supporting policies that promote sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices.
In addition, the study highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of heatwaves, including climate change. By reducing our carbon footprint and transitioning to renewable energy sources, we can help to mitigate the impacts of climate change and reduce the risk of heatwaves in the future.
Finally, it’s essential to prioritize our health and wellbeing during heatwaves. This includes taking regular breaks to rest and recover, and seeking medical attention if we’re experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
In conclusion, the study highlights the urgent need to take action to address the impacts of heatwaves on our health and wellbeing. By taking steps to stay cool, reduce our exposure to heatwaves, and address the root causes of climate change, we can help to mitigate the effects of heatwaves on our biological age.
