EMERGING research has discovered a potential link between exposure to outdoor nighttime light pollution and an increased prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This large-scale U.S.-based study by Robin Voigt et al. utilized satellite data to measure outdoor artificial nighttime light intensity and compared it with Medicare records to assess the prevalence of AD.
The study revealed that regions with higher levels of outdoor nighttime light had a corresponding increase in AD cases. Notably, the association between light exposure and Alzheimer’s risk was more significant in individuals under 65, a startling finding given that AD is typically associated with aging. While other risk factors such as atrial fibrillation, diabetes, and hypertension were more strongly associated with Alzheimer’s prevalence, nighttime light exposure showed a stronger correlation than conditions like obesity, heart failure, and depression.
“These findings suggest that artificial light at night could play a role in Alzheimer’s risk, particularly in younger populations,” the authors noted. They emphasized that while the study provides compelling evidence, more research is needed to fully understand how light pollution influences neurodegenerative diseases.
Given the increasing prevalence of AD worldwide, this study highlights the need to further investigate environmental factors, like light pollution, that may contribute to the disease. The results underscore the importance of addressing modifiable environmental risks as part of a comprehensive approach to Alzheimer’s prevention.
Reference: Voigt RM et al. Outdoor nighttime light exposure (light pollution) is associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Front. Neurosci. 2024;18:1378498.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
