web counter
LEXO PA REKLAMA!

SHKARKO APP

App Store
Google Play

Why do heat waves hit women harder?

2026-07-09 07:46:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Why do heat waves hit women harder?

Heat waves don't affect everyone the same. According to health experts, women are more susceptible to extreme temperatures due to biological, hormonal and social factors, more often facing fatigue, dizziness, hot flashes and cardiovascular problems.

NHS GP Dr Nighat Arif explains that extreme heat is a "stress test" for women's cardiovascular system. Unlike men, women produce less sweat and start sweating at higher temperatures, making it harder for them to dissipate heat. Also, their higher core body temperature and higher body fat percentage increase their sensitivity to heat.

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause make it even more difficult to regulate body temperature. During menstruation, decreased estrogen and iron loss can cause fatigue, dizziness, and weakness, while in menopause, hot flashes and night sweats can worsen significantly during hot flashes.

Pregnant women are also considered a higher-risk group. Increased metabolic needs, hormonal changes, and additional stress on the cardiovascular system make the body more vulnerable to heat stress, increasing the risk of complications for both mother and baby.

Experts point out that in addition to biology, social factors also play a role. Women often bear the brunt of family caregiving and, in many cases, face more difficult economic conditions, which can make it more difficult to protect themselves from high temperatures. Also, since they live longer on average than men, they are more likely to face the risks of heat in old age.

Doctors advise that during heat waves, people should drink as much water as possible, avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours, use fans or cooling devices, perform physical activity in the early morning or evening hours, and recognize the signs of fatigue and heat stroke.

According to specialists, more awareness and specific policies are needed to protect women from the effects of extreme weather. As Dr. Arif points out, "if we do it right for women, we do it right for everyone."/ CNA





Lajmet e fundit nga