Exposure to light during night sleep negatively affects heart health
A scientific study published in the European Heart Journal showed that sleeping in nighttime light causes structural damage to the heart and increases life-threatening risks.
It has been revealed that exposure to light during night sleep negatively affects the structure and function of the heart, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
Details and Scope of the Research
A new study published in the European Heart Journal is the first to examine how exposure to light during night sleep affects the structure and function of the heart.
Participant Data and Monitoring Method
Researchers analyzed data from 11,071 participants who initially had no cardiovascular disease. A few years after the participants wore light and motion sensors on their wrists, cardiac MRIs were performed.
Light Sources and Exposure Levels
It was stated that potential sources include street lamps leaking through the window, radio clock lights, and LED lights on electronic devices. The analysis was conducted after adjusting for lifestyle, health, and environmental factors.
Structural Changes Occurring in the Heart
Participants in the highest light exposure group showed an average 2.4 percent enlargement in their left ventricles, a 1.5 percent thickening in the heart wall, and a 1.9 percent reduction in the heart's pumping capacity.
Increased Cardiovascular Risk Ratios
It was determined that individuals in the highest light group had a 29 percent higher risk of heart failure, a 24 percent higher risk of heart attack, a 33 percent higher risk of stroke, and a 26 percent higher risk of cardiovascular death compared to the lowest light group.
Simple Precautions That Can Be Taken
Experts emphasize that simple precautions can be taken, such as using blackout curtains, choosing warm-colored lighting in the bedroom, and turning off small LED lights on home appliances.