Lights On at Night? Your Heart Might Pay the Price, Warns New Study

New Study Reveals the Hidden Dangers of Nighttime Light Exposure

In an age dominated by LEDs, LCDs, and OLED screens, scientists are warning that our growing dependence on artificial light — even during sleep — may be silently damaging our hearts. A groundbreaking study by Flinders University (Australia) in collaboration with the UK Biobank has revealed that sleeping in a brightly lit room can drastically increase the risk of heart diseases.

The researchers have termed this finding a “game changer”, showing that something as common as keeping lights or screens on during sleep could lead to a range of serious cardiovascular problems.

Bright Rooms May Increase Heart Failure Risk by 56%

The study, which examined data from over 80,000 participants, found strong links between nighttime light exposure and cardiovascular disease among people aged 40 and above.

• Sleeping in a bright room (such as one illuminated by a ceiling light) can raise the risk of heart failure by 56%.

• Exposure to intense light during sleep may increase the chances of a heart attack (myocardial infarction) by 47%.

• Risks of atherosclerosis (artery hardening) and stroke could rise by 32% and 28%, respectively.

Experts explain that bright light at night disrupts circadian rhythms — the body’s natural biological clock — causing hormonal imbalances and forcing the heart to work overtime, even during rest.

Mobile Phones Add to the Problem

Beyond ambient lighting, the habit of scrolling through mobile phones before bed has been found to worsen the situation. The blue light emitted by phone screens disrupts the sleep cycle, while the electromagnetic radiation from prolonged phone proximity may affect brain, eye, and reproductive health.

Health experts warn that keeping a phone near the bed can lead to a range of health issues, including:

• Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)

• Insomnia and disturbed sleep

• Cognitive decline and hearing loss

• Developmental issues in children

• Foetal growth retardation during pregnancy

• Even potential links to cancer from long-term radiation exposure

Women and Children at Higher Risk

Medical experts also caution that women and children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of night light and radiation exposure. Their hormonal systems and biological rhythms are more sensitive to disruptions, making them prone to stress, fatigue, and long-term heart complications.

Doctors Recommend a ‘Light-Free’ Sleep Environment

Doctors advise making simple lifestyle adjustments to mitigate the risks:

• Use eye masks or curtains to block light.

• Avoid using mobile phones, tablets, or televisions at least an hour before bedtime.

• Opt for soft, warm-toned lighting instead of bright LEDs.

• Keep phones away from the bed during the night.

“The glow of your screen may seem harmless, but it could be stealing your health,” one of the study’s lead researchers noted. “A dark, quiet environment is vital for restorative sleep and heart protection.”

A Small Change Today Can Save Lives Tomorrow

The research serves as a wake-up call for millions who fall asleep under the glare of lights or gadgets. Experts emphasize that improving nighttime habits is one of the simplest ways to protect heart health and overall well-being.

As the scientists warn — “Don’t let your glow be the thief of your health.”