Night Light Exposure Linked to Increased heart Disease Risk, Study Finds
New research suggests even modest exposure to artificial light at night is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, adding to growing concerns about the health impacts of light pollution.
A new study reveals a nearly linearโ relationship between nighttime light exposure and heartโค disease,with even small increases in artificialโข lightโฃ linked to greater stress on the brain and arteries. “We โfound โan almost linear relationship between night light โand heart disease: the greater โthe exposureโ toโ night light, the higher the risk,” explains Dr. Shady Abohashem, โone of the studyS authors.
The research indicates that when the brain perceives stress from light exposure, it activates signals that can trigger an immune response and inflame blood vessels. Over time, this process can contribute to hardening of the arteries and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
While the study has not yetโ been published in aโค peer-reviewed journal, it corroborates existing research highlighting the detrimental effects of insufficient darkness during sleep. Experts recommend several โsteps to mitigate exposure to โnighttimeโฃ light โขpollution. Individuals can advocate for reduced and sensor-activated exterior lighting in their communities, and take personal measures such as using blackout curtains, sleep โmasks, and sealing gaps around windows to block out light. Removing electronic devices and decorative lights fromโ bedrooms is also advised.โข
The findings underscore the growing recognition of excessive artificialโข light at night as a significant public health issue.
