Exposure at night increases cardiometabolic disorders risk in older age

The use of artificial lighting at night is becoming more frequent in developed countries where the population is aging and the prevalence of cardiometabolic disorders is worrying.

US researchers studied the association of light exposure with cardiovascular diseases risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in older adults.

They examined the light these seniors were exposed to over 24 hours x 7 days. 46.2% of adults had a 5-h period without light, while 53.8% of adults were exposed to some light during that 5-h at night.

Researchers found that exposure to light at night was associated with a higher prevalence of these disorders.

Adapting artificial light to what our body needs throughout the day with circadian lighting makes our body regulate its internal clock which is linked with most biological processes.

Dimmed and warm light at night can help in the prevention and treatment of those disorders to reduce the rate of cardiovascular disease in the population.

Learn more about the effects of light on elderly health here.