- Record-breaking heat: The Earth experienced its hottest day since 1979, with temperatures reaching nearly 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17.2 degrees Celsius). This extreme heat is attributed to a combination of global warming and the El Ninฬo climate phenomenon.
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Impact on human health: Researchers at the University of Roehampton found that the human body struggles to regulate its core temperature at 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or higher, especially with moderate to high humidity. These conditions can significantly increase metabolic rates and heart rates.
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Gender differences and limitations: The experiments revealed that women may be less efficient at dissipating excess heat compared to men. However, the findings are based on a small sample size and may not apply universally. The mechanisms behind the physiological changes caused by increased metabolic rates in higher temperatures remain unclear.
Supplemental Information โน๏ธ
The record-breaking heat highlights the ongoing issue of heatwaves caused by global warming. Understanding how the human body responds to heat stress and the limitations of its adaptation is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies and protecting public health.
ELI5 ๐
It was really hot recently, like the hottest day in a long time. Scientists found that when it gets very hot, our bodies struggle to keep cool, and it can make our heart beat faster. The experiments showed that women may have a harder time getting rid of the extra heat. But we need more research to understand why this happens and how it affects different people.
๐ #Heatwave #ClimateChange #HumanHealth