Artificial light has made our lives much easier- it helps us stay active even after dark, makes our surroundings more beautiful, and has been a boon for various industries like hospitality, aviation, and healthcare.

However, the downside of artificial light, especially during nighttime, cannot be ignored, as it poses several health risks. One of the most significant risks is an increased colon cancer risk among individuals exposed to artificial light for extended periods.

What is Artificial Light?

Artificial light is any light source that is not natural, including incandescent lamps, fluorescent bulbs, LED lights, and digital screens.

Exposure to artificial light impacts the circadian rhythm of our body, which is responsible for regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Specifically, our body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, is suppressed when exposed to artificial light, particularly blue light.

This is why it’s essential to avoid exposure to artificial light before bedtime, as it can affect the body’s ability to fall asleep and get a good night’s rest.

Artificial Light and Colon Cancer Risk

Various studies conducted over the years have highlighted the relationship between exposure to artificial light at night and an increased risk of colon cancer.

Molecular studies have shown that light exposure during nighttime alters the molecular expression in the colon, leading to an increase in cell division, inflammation, and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These changes, over time, can cause DNA damage, rendering the body susceptible to colon cancer.

One study in particular, conducted by the American Cancer Society, noted that individuals exposed to high levels of artificial light at night are more likely to develop colon cancer than their peers living in areas with low nighttime light pollution.

The study noted that exposure to light at night disrupts the body’s natural circadian rhythm and inhibits the production of melatonin, which is vital for regulating cell growth and repair. The study examined data from over 1.5 million participants, and the findings were consistent across all age groups, sexes, and races.

Preventing Colon Cancer Risk from Artificial Light

While we can’t avoid artificial light altogether, we can take steps to minimize its impact on our body. Here’s what you can do:.

1. Reduce exposure to artificial light at night:

Make it a habit to turn off all lights, including digital screens, before bedtime. If you live in an area with high levels of nighttime light pollution, consider investing in blackout curtains or blinds.

These can block out external artificial light and create a dark environment that promotes better sleep.

2. Use warm-colored light at night:

Choose warm-colored light bulbs over cool-toned ones, as warm light has much less blue light, which affects the body’s melatonin production.

This is especially important to consider in areas where night-time light exposure cannot be avoided, such as in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

3. Spend more time outside during the day:

Studies suggest that exposure to natural light during the day can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and improve sleep at night.

Spending more time outside during the day can also reduce blue light exposure at night and, consequently, decrease your risk of colon cancer.

4. Follow a healthy lifestyle:

A healthy lifestyle is vital for reducing the risk of colon cancer and other health conditions.

Eating a diet rich in fiber and low in red and processed meat, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise can contribute significantly to reducing your risk.

Conclusion

Constant exposure to artificial light at night poses significant health risks, including an increased risk of colon cancer. While we cannot avoid artificial light entirely, we can take steps to minimize its impact on our body.

By reducing exposure to artificial light at night, using warm-colored light, spending more time outside during the day, and following a healthy lifestyle, we can reduce our risk of developing colon cancer.