Extreme heat can affect anyone, but it hits women harder than men. Dr Nighat Arif, an NHS doctor who specializes in women's health, told the BBC that heatwaves are a "stress-test" for women's cardiovascularcardiovascular/ˌkɑːrdi.oʊˈvæskjələr/L2心血管的related to the heart and blood vessels systems. Women produce less sweat and start sweating at a higher temperature. This makes it harder for them to cool down. Also, women have a higher core body temperature and more body fat, which adds extra insulationinsulation/ˌɪn.səˈleɪ.ʃən/L2隔热；绝缘material or a layer that prevents heat, sound, or electricity from passing through.
Hormonehormone/ˈhɔːr.moʊn/L2激素a chemical substance produced in the body that controls certain activities levels also play a big role. During the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, women's hormones change. These changes affect the brain's temperature control system. As a result, women may feel more discomfort during heatwaves. For example, women on their period may feel more tired, dizzy, or anxious. Michaela Finn, from north London, said: "My body was completely exhausted, aching and cramping."
Age and money matters also increase the risk. Women live longer than men, so they are more vulnerablevulnerable/ˈvʌl.nər.ə.bəl/L2脆弱的；易受伤害的easily hurt or affected by something bad to heat as they get older. In addition, women often earn less money and take care of others. This can make it harder to protect themselves in hot weather. Dr Arif advised: "Know the signs of heat exhaustionexhaustion/ɪɡˈzɔːs.tʃən/L2筋疲力尽；衰竭the state of being extremely tired, either physically or mentally and heat stroke." She said people should drink fluids, use fans, and exercise before sunrise or after sunset.
