原来光污染与阿尔兹海默症风险显著相关 你知道吗

Core Viewpoint - A study published in September 2024 suggests a significant correlation between light pollution and the risk of Alzheimer's disease, indicating that exposure to artificial light at night may negatively impact health and cognitive function [1][2]. Group 1: Research Findings - The research compared light pollution levels across 48 states in the U.S. with local medical records, revealing a notable positive correlation between light pollution and Alzheimer's disease [2]. - For individuals aged 65 and older, light pollution is one of several risk factors for Alzheimer's, alongside alcohol abuse, chronic kidney disease, depression, diabetes, and hypertension [5]. - In contrast, for those under 65, light pollution may be the primary risk factor influencing Alzheimer's disease risk among various assessed factors [5]. Group 2: Physiological Effects of Light Pollution - A study involving 20 participants showed that those sleeping in lit rooms had increased heart rates, indicating heightened sympathetic nervous system activation, which disrupts the body's natural rest during the night [6]. - Insulin secretion was also affected, with participants exposed to light showing increased insulin resistance, potentially leading to a higher risk of diabetes [8]. - Animal studies indicated that exposure to nighttime light led to reduced dendritic spine density in hippocampal neurons and behavioral changes resembling depression, suggesting that the detrimental effects of light pollution may be more severe than previously understood [8]. Group 3: Sleep Disruption and Alzheimer's Connection - Light pollution directly contributes to sleep disturbances, with a study in South Korea finding that 22% of 52,000 participants used sleep medications, with higher usage correlating with increased light pollution [9]. - A follow-up study on 511 participants indicated that more severe insomnia symptoms were linked to poorer cognitive performance over four years, particularly in carriers of the APOE ε4 allele, which is associated with increased Alzheimer's risk [10]. - The research emphasizes the importance of maintaining dark sleeping environments to mitigate the effects of light pollution on sleep and cognitive health [10].