Futurity · Space

Nighttime Light Exposure Linked to Heart Changes

New research suggests that sleeping in darkness may benefit heart health, as even low levels of nighttime light exposure were associated with potentially harmful changes in heart structure and function.

Previous studies linked nighttime light exposure to increased cardiovascular disease risk, but the specific cardiac changes were unclear. This research aimed to investigate these effects over time.

The study analyzed data from over 11,000 participants who wore a wrist sensor for a week to measure overnight light exposure, ranging from near-total darkness (0 lux) to over 3 lux (similar to a dim phone screen).

Three years later, cardiovascular magnetic resonance scans revealed that participants with higher nighttime light exposure experienced thickening of the left heart chamber walls, reducing its internal space. Signs of reduced heart flexibility during beats, an early indicator of dysfunction, were also observed.

Researchers described these changes as "cardiac remodeling," where the heart's structure and function adapt to stress or injury, ultimately weakening it and potentially leading to heart failure.

Cardiovascular disease is a leading global cause of death. Nighttime light exposure is an environmental risk factor that, unlike age or genetics, is modifiable.

The findings suggest that reducing nighttime light exposure, by turning off lights and screens or using eye masks, could be a strategy for preventing heart disease, according to the lead author.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.