A new study has found that repeated exposure to heatwaves can make our bodies age faster biologically, not just by the calendar. The study, based on data from 24,922 adults in Taiwan, showed that for each increase in cumulative heatwave exposure, people's biological age ticked ahead by roughly 8 to 11 days. The impact of heat was felt more intensely by manual workers, rural residents, and those living in communities with fewer air conditioners.

Although the study found signs of gradual adaptation over a 15-year period, the core message remains the same—chronic heat exposure can tax our bodies in a way that adds up. To combat the effects of heat exposure, it is important to make smart personal choices, such as scheduling activities during cooler hours, staying hydrated, and finding ways to cool down. The study's findings emphasize the importance of managing heat exposure to maintain overall health and well-being.