Australian research from Flinders University has found that exposure to bright artificial light at night can increase the risk of death, emphasizing the critical role of circadian rhythms for health. Analyzing over 13 million hours of data from light sensors on 89, 000 participants, the study revealed that people experiencing brighter nights had a 21-34% higher risk of death, whereas those with high daylight exposure saw a 17-34% reduction in mortality risk.
Disruptions to the circadian rhythm, caused by bright nighttime environments, are linked to health issues including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health challenges, noted Sean Cain, senior author and sleep expert at Flinders University. The researchers recommend seeking bright light during the day and minimizing exposure at night to maintain circadian health.
The data for this study was collected from 89, 000 UK Biobank participants aged 40-69 and monitored by light sensors for seven days between 2013 and 2016, with participant mortality followed up over eight years.
For more on the study's insights into light exposure and health, refer to the detailed findings from Flinders University.