Avoid 3C Devices at Night: Blue Light May Raise Colorectal Cancer Risk
pine Webmaster of Pineapple
2020/08/06 01:37
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Health Channel / Comprehensive Report
3C electronic products have become an indispensable part of modern life, meaning people are frequently exposed to strong blue light emitted by computers, tablets, smartphones, and even outdoor digital billboards. However, a scientific study from Spain has found that prolonged exposure to blue light may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. The study has been published in the journal *Epidemiology*.
Previous research has shown that frequent nighttime exposure to artificial light (especially blue light) can lead to various adverse effects over time, such as sleep disorders, obesity, and eye diseases. However, a research team from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) conducted the first study examining the link between prolonged nighttime exposure to blue light and colorectal cancer.
**60% Higher Risk of Colorectal Cancer**
Manolis Kogevinas, scientific director of ISGlobal and coordinator of the study, stated that their previous research had already identified a connection between prolonged nighttime exposure to artificial light and an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer. "Since the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) under the World Health Organization classifies night shift work as a potential high-risk factor for human carcinogenicity—with breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers showing the highest incidence—this study follows the same approach to determine whether long-term exposure to artificial light also raises the risk of colorectal cancer."
The research team analyzed health data from approximately 2,000 office workers in Barcelona and Madrid, including 660 individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The remaining participants were randomly sampled from the general population of both cities, excluding those with a history of night shift work. The team also used imagery data from the International Space Station to assess nighttime outdoor artificial light levels.
The results revealed that participants with the highest exposure to blue light had a 60% greater risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with lower exposure. Kogevinas noted that while previous studies found that prolonged nighttime exposure to artificial light reduces melatonin production and secretion, this study specifically highlights that blue light may pose an even more severe threat.
"Although research on light pollution is still in its early stages, growing concerns about the long-term effects of blue light on personal health and the ecological environment necessitate deeper investigation to prevent and mitigate cancer risks."
Source:
https://health. ltn. com. tw/ article/ breakingnews/ 3250047