Nighttime Light Exposure in Older Adults Linked to Obesity, Diabetes, and High Blood Pressure

Light at night (LAN) is associated with a higher prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension among older adults.

• Older adults exposed to LAN have an increased likelihood of obesity, with an odds ratio of 1.82.
• The presence of LAN is linked to a twofold increased risk of diabetes (odds ratio 2.00).
• Hypertension prevalence is also higher in those with LAN exposure, with an odds ratio of 1.74.
• LAN exposure is associated with later timing of lowest light and activity levels.
• Higher LAN exposure correlates with lower stability and amplitude of light exposure and activity patterns.
• Increased wakefulness after sleep onset is associated with habitual LAN exposure in older adults.

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