A major study led by Australia’s Flinders University, published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open, reveals that exposure to bright light at night (LAN) increases the risk of heart failure by 56%. The research highlights that disruption of the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) due to nighttime light exposure is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.

Key Findings of the Study: Researchers analyzed data from approximately 89,000 individuals in the United Kingdom who wore wrist sensors to measure light exposure levels. The study spanned an average of 9.5 years. Those exposed to higher levels of bright light at night (top 10% of light exposure) showed a significantly increased risk of heart-related conditions:Heart Failure: 56% higher risk.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): 47% higher risk.

Stroke: 28% higher risk.

Coronary Artery Disease: 32% higher risk.YOHO Bubbles Men Ortho slippers | Soft comfortable and stylish flip flop slippers

Even after accounting for other cardiovascular risk factors such as age, gender, smoking, diet, sleep duration, and genetics, the risk from nighttime light exposure remained significant.

Reasons for the Risk: The primary cause is the disruption of the circadian rhythm, the body’s 24-hour biological clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles and other internal processes. Also Read; Hijab Case: Student Decides to Leave School, Kerala High Court Closes Case

Melatonin Suppression: Bright light, especially blue light from phone screens, inhibits the production of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep.

Stress Response: This disruption keeps the body in a heightened state of alertness, increasing heart rate and blood pressure.

Recommendations: Researchers suggest that avoiding bright light at night is a simple way to reduce cardiovascular risk. Limiting the use of mobile phones and TVs at night can help protect heart health.