Turn Off the Lights (and the TV) Before Going to Sleep

A large observational study suggests exposure to artificial light at night while sleeping raises risk for obesity.

Animal and limited human data indicate that exposure to artificial light at night (ALAN) contributes to obesity. As part of a prospective U.S. cohort study, 43,222 women (mean baseline age, 55) were asked about sources of ALAN present while sleeping, including no light (Category 1 [C1]), a nightlight or clock radio (C2), light from outside the room (C3), or a television or ≥1 light on in the room (C4). Body-mass index (BMI) was measured at baseline and every 2 to 3 years.

Baseline mean BMI progressively increased with ALAN exposure, from 27.0 kg/m² (C1 and C2) to 29.2 (C4). In analysis adjusted for several covariables, having any ALAN exposure was associated with higher prevalence of obesity at baseline (prevalence ratio, 1.03). At a mean fo…

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Turn Off the Lights (and the TV) Before Going to Sleep

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Reviewing Author