Heat Waves Linked to Accelerated Biological Aging in Older Adults, Study Finds

A recent study published in Science Advances reveals a link between living in areas with frequent heat waves and accelerated biological aging in adults aged 56 and older. Researchers analyzed blood samples from 3,679 participants over six years, examining epigenetic changes through DNA methylation patterns. The study compared these changes with historical heat index data from 2010 to 2016. Participants residing in areas with more frequent heat waves, defined as days with a heat index reaching or exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit, experienced up to 14 months of additional biological aging compared to those in cooler regions. The study suggests that higher temperatures may trigger cellular stress and inflammation, impacting DNA methylation patterns and potentially leading to systemic aging effects. Experts recommend precautions such as staying hydrated, seeking air-conditioned environments, and wearing light clothing to mitigate the adverse effects of heat waves.