Research shows that extreme heat waves can accelerate aging; Understand what happens within the human body
In recent years, we have witnessed extreme heat waves that have intensified. In addition to immediate discomfort, such as insolation, dehydration and increased blood pressure, new research emerged. High temperatures can also be connected to a less visible but equally worrying process: the acceleration of biological aging.
A study published in the magazine Scientific progressconducted by researchers from Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at the University of Southern California, he followed thousands of participants for six years and found a strong correlation between prolonged exposure to heat and increased epigenetic markers related to aging.
Extreme heat wrinkles
The impact of intense heat on human health is not exactly new. Brazilian research had already shown the increase in mortality in very hot days, in particular between the elderly and people with chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.
Avocate physiological effects are known: dehydration, increase in body temperature, excessive sweat, expansion of blood vessels and even the risk of skin cancer. But a new research shows that the heat does not act only on the surface. It can also cause profound changes in our genes.
What science has discovered
The study analyzed 3,686 people over the age of 56, with an average age of 68.6 years, in the collections made between 2010 and 2017. Attention was the methylation of DNA, an epigenetic marker that acts as a “biological watch”, capable of indicating the speed of cell aging.
By crossing genetic information with climatic data in each region, scientists observed that individuals who lived in warmer areas showed biological aging signs up to 14 more advanced months than the chronological age.
According to the researchers, this is because, with natural aging, the body loses the ability to regulate the internal temperature. This vulnerability makes the body more susceptible to the cell damage caused by extreme heat.
Quick and cumulative actions
One of the most relevant research points is that extreme heat has cumulative effects. Even if the signs do not immediately appear on the skin or body, on cellular level the damage is already starting to accumulate and can have an impact on health in the future.
In addition, scientists underline that even when they consider variables such as lifestyle, smoke, alcohol consumption, income and demographic factors, the association between extreme heat and epigenetic aging has remained.
Prevention is fundamental
Despite the results, researchers strengthen this correlation does not mean cause. It is not yet possible to say that heat directly ages the body, but the evidence already serves as a warning to rethink our way of living in cities and adapting to climate change.
This includes urban strategies (such as the reduction of “heat islands” so called with multiple green areas) to personal care as constant hydration, use of sun cream, balanced food and exercise.
Science shows that, in the face of extreme heat, it is not enough to look for the shadow. You have to think of collective and individual ways to relieve impacts, ensuring that aging is increasingly healthy.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
