Heat Waves Found to Accelerate Biological Ageing, New Study Warns

Around the world, some regions are grappling with devastating floods, while others face recurring heat waves . Both climate disasters claim thousands of lives annually. Now, new scientific findings reveal that prolonged exposure to extreme heat may accelerate the human ageing process.

Landmark Study in Nature Climate Change

A recent study published in Nature Climate Change analysed health data from 24,922 adults in Taiwan between 2008 and 2022. Researchers found that repeated exposure to heat waves can significantly speed up biological ageing , a process usually associated with lifestyle factors like smoking or alcohol consumption.

Understanding Biological Age

Unlike chronological age, which simply counts years, biological age reflects how the body is functioning internally. Scientists assessed 12 biomarkers, including liver, lung, and metabolic performance, to determine how heat waves affect the ageing process.

Heat Exposure Comparable to Smoking and Drinking

The findings reveal that even moderate increases in heat wave exposure can impact biological age as strongly as smoking or drinking alcohol. This shows the body’s vulnerability to extreme weather, beyond the immediate risks of heat-related illnesses.

Older Adults at Greater Risk

While younger and older people may experience similar exposure, older individuals are more susceptible to biological changes caused by heat waves. The study found that outdoor workers or those without access to air-conditioning were particularly at risk.

Expert Insights on the Findings

Cui Guo, lead researcher and assistant professor at the University of Hong Kong, emphasised that the study does not suggest people are losing days off their lifespan. Instead, it shows that heat waves may affect the body more deeply than previously understood.

Global Perspective on the Results

Paul Beggs, an environmental health scientist at Macquarie University in Australia, described the results as “surprising and a wake-up call.” He stressed that everyone is vulnerable to the health effects of climate change, urging urgent reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

Supporting Evidence from the US

The Taiwanese study aligns with recent research in the United States, which also found that outdoor heat accelerates ageing among older adults. Together, these studies highlight the growing health risks of rising global temperatures.

2024: The Hottest Year on Record

According to World Weather Attribution, 2024 was the hottest year ever recorded globally. Climate change added 41 extra days of extreme heat, increasing the risks faced by vulnerable populations worldwide.

Urgent Call for Climate Action

The study’s findings underline the need for stronger climate policies and individual protections. From reducing emissions to improving cooling infrastructure, urgent action is necessary to safeguard both human health and longevity.