Some people struggle more than others to cope with high temperatures. But what factors affect their ability to withstand the heat?
In an interview with MedicalXpress, Professor Larry Kenney—Professor of Physiology and Kinesiology and Chair of Human Performance at Penn State University—explained:
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"Research has shown that young men and women have an equal ability to tolerate extreme heat. However, women's ability to handle high temperatures decreases with age."
He added:
"Humans can tolerate high heat and humidity for short periods, thanks to the body's effective sweating mechanism, which cools the body. But when extreme heat and high humidity prevent sweat from evaporating, core body temperature starts to rise. The risk of heatstroke in such cases varies from person to person. Over the past five years, we’ve conducted more than 550 experiments in our university labs. The results showed no differences between young men and women in performing basic daily tasks in the heat. However, gender becomes a factor starting in midlife and beyond. Women aged 40 to 64 show the same sensitivity to heat as men over 65, while women over 65 are at even higher risk of serious heat-related consequences."
Professor Kenney also pointed out that the biological mechanisms behind these gender differences are not yet fully understood. Penn State University is currently investigating whether hormonal changes associated with menopause play a role in the decline of women's heat tolerance as they age.
(Source: Lenta.ru)
