Artificial Light at Night and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Sep 23, 2024Diabetes & metabolism journal

Artificial Light at Night and Its Link to Type 2 Diabetes

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Circadian Biology on OpenScience ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗OA ↗

Abstract

(ALAN) is linked to an increased risk of (T2DM).

Widespread ALAN disrupts natural circadian rhythms, which may lead to unhealthy lifestyle behaviors.
Evidence suggests ALAN exposure is associated with both the incidence and prevalence of T2DM.
Characteristics of ALAN, including light type, timing, duration, and individual sensitivity, may influence T2DM risk.
ALAN has been linked to poor sleep health, which can affect physical activity and dietary patterns.
Potential biological mechanisms exist through which ALAN modulates glucose metabolism.
Chronotherapies and chrononutrition may offer management strategies for diabetes in the context of ALAN exposure.

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The widespread and pervasive use of (ALAN) in our modern 24-hour society has emerged as a substantial disruptor of natural circadian rhythms, potentially leading to a rise in unhealthy lifestyle-related behaviors (e.g., poor sleep; shift work). This phenomenon has been associated with an increased risk of (T2DM), which is a pressing global public health concern. However, to date, reviews summarizing associations between ALAN and T2DM have primarily focused on the limited characteristics of exposure (e.g., intensity) to ALAN. This literature review extends beyond prior reviews by consolidating recent studies from 2000 to 2024 regarding associations between both indoor and outdoor ALAN exposure and the incidence or prevalence of T2DM. We also described potential biological mechanisms through which ALAN modulates glucose metabolism. Furthermore, we outlined knowledge gaps and investigated how various ALAN characteristics beyond only light intensity (including light type, timing, duration, wavelength, and individual sensitivity) influence T2DM risk. Recognizing the detrimental impact of ALAN on sleep health and the behavioral correlates of physical activity and dietary patterns, we additionally summarized studies investigating the potential mediating role of each component in the relationship between ALAN and glucose metabolism. Lastly, we proposed implications of chronotherapies and chrononutrition for diabetes management in the context of ALAN exposure.

Key numbers

1.28

Increased Risk of

Odds ratio for in highest vs. lowest quintile of outdoor exposure.

2.0

Higher Prevalence of

Odds ratio for prevalence with indoor exposure.

80%

Global Exposure

Percentage of the global population exposed to .

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Artificial Light at Night and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

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