Living in areas that experience extreme heat can accelerate biological aging just as much as smoking, according to a recent study conducted in the U.S. Researchers found that people residing in regions where temperatures regularly exceeded 40°C had genetic material that appeared more than a year older than those in cooler areas.
Dr. Eunyoung Choi, the study’s lead author and a postdoctoral associate at the University of Southern California’s Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, described the findings as “striking.” While scientists had expected a connection between extreme heat and genetic aging, the extent of the impact was surprising. “Just by living in hotter areas, people may experience an additional 14 months of biological aging,” Dr. Choi said. “This effect is equivalent to smoking and even greater than drinking alcohol. We were surprised by the extent of heat’s impact.”
The Science Behind It
The study, published in a peer-reviewed journal, examined the impact of extreme heat on epigenetic markers—chemical modifications in DNA that influence how genes function without altering their sequence. Scientists measured telomere length (the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with age) and other biological aging indicators in people exposed to prolonged high temperatures.
The results showed that frequent exposure to extreme heat caused similar levels of genetic wear and tear as smoking a pack of cigarettes daily. This suggests that high temperatures can accelerate cellular aging, increasing the risk of age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and even cancer.
How Heat Affects the Body
Prolonged heat exposure stresses the body in multiple ways:
- Oxidative stress: Heat increases the production of free radicals, unstable molecules that damage cells and DNA.
- Inflammation: Persistent heat exposure triggers chronic inflammation, a key driver of aging and many diseases.
- Dehydration & Organ Strain: Heat forces the heart, kidneys, and other organs to work harder, contributing to premature aging.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While everyone is vulnerable to extreme heat, certain groups face greater risks:
- Elderly individuals (already prone to cellular aging)
- Outdoor workers (exposed to high temperatures for long hours)
- People with chronic illnesses (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes)
- Low-income populations (who may lack access to cooling resources)
Mitigating the Effects of Heat-Induced Aging
Although climate change is a global issue, individuals can take steps to protect themselves:
- Stay hydrated to combat cellular stress.
- Limit exposure to high temperatures, especially during peak hours.
- Use cooling strategies like wearing light clothing, staying in shaded or air-conditioned spaces, and taking cool showers.
- Adopt a healthy diet rich in antioxidants to counteract oxidative stress.
- Advocate for climate policies that address rising temperatures and urban heat islands.
This study adds to the growing body of evidence that climate change is more than an environmental crisis—it’s a direct threat to human health and longevity. If global temperatures continue to rise, we may face an increase in premature aging, chronic diseases, and reduced life expectancy.
Governments, scientists, and urban planners must work together to develop sustainable cooling strategies that protect populations from heat-induced aging. As research continues, one thing is clear: addressing climate change isn’t just about saving the planet—it’s about protecting our health at a genetic level.
