Greater exposure to outdoor artificial light at night (ALAN) is associated with an increased risk of developing myopia in children, according to a study involving 19,114 children.
Background
Myopia is a growing public health concern, with its prevalence projected to reach 52% globally by 2050. Understanding environmental factors, such as outdoor artificial light exposure, is crucial.
Data Highlights
Exposure Level (nW/cm²/sr)
Risk of Incident Myopia
34
26% higher risk
Highest quartile
34% higher risk
Lowest quartile
Reference group
Key Findings
55% of participants in the prospective cohort developed myopia during follow-up.
Each 34 nW/cm²/sr increase in outdoor ALAN exposure was associated with a 26% higher risk of developing myopia.
Children in the highest exposure quartile had a 34% higher risk of incident myopia compared to those in the lowest quartile.
Age modified the association; older children showed a 27% higher risk of incident myopia with greater ALAN exposure.
Cross-sectional data indicated a smaller association with prevalent myopia, with 27% of participants having myopia at baseline.
Subgroup analyses suggested increased risks among children with two parents with myopia and those from lower-income families.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare professionals should consider environmental factors, such as outdoor artificial light exposure, when assessing myopia risk in children.
Conclusion
The study highlights a significant association between outdoor ALAN exposure and the risk of developing myopia in children.
