A recent genetic study has revealed that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can alter gene expression and potentially accelerate ageing in older adults.

Researchers from the University of Southern California (USC) found that individuals living in areas with frequent high temperatures exhibited greater biological ageing compared to those in cooler regions.

“Extreme heat has already been linked to health risks such as heart disease and increased mortality, but its impact on biological ageing was previously unclear,” said Jennifer Ailshire, senior author and professor of gerontology and sociology at USC.

The study highlights the long-term consequences of climate change on human health, emphasizing the need for measures to protect vulnerable populations from extreme temperatures.