A major study has found that extreme heat can accelerate ageing. Researchers tracked 25,000 adults in Taiwan over 15 years and discovered that just four extra heatwave days in two years increased people’s biological age by nine days.
For outdoor workers, the effect was even stronger equivalent to 33 extra days of ageing.
While people adapt over time with cooling and shade, the ageing effect remains significant. Scientists warn that decades of exposure could have serious long-term health consequences.
Those most at risk include the elderly, manual laborers, rural residents, and anyone with limited access to air conditioning.
Experts say the findings highlight an urgent need for public health measures as heatwaves intensify with climate change.