made by Dark Sky advocacy groups, environmental organizations, and town boards. Check for local, state, and (eventually) Federal light pollution ordinances. Health : Less likely, but still a consideration are negative health risks associated with artificial lighting. An AI ChatGPT inquiry yields the following: Artificial lighting, including LEDs (light-emitting diodes) , has revolutionized energy efficiency and longevity in lighting. However, there are several documented and potential health concerns when LEDs are improperly used or overexposed — especially at night.
Health Risks Associated with LED and Artificial Lighting 1. Disruption of Circadian Rhythms
• Cause : Blue light wavelengths (especially ~460–480 nm) in many white LEDs. • Effect : Suppresses melatonin, the sleep-regulating hormone. • Outcome : Sleep disturbances, insomnia, fatigue, and increased risk of chronic conditions like obesity, depression, and cardiovascular issues. • Evidence : Supported by studies from Harvard Medical School, WHO, and AMA.
2. Increased Risk of Eye Strain and Retinal Stress
• Cause : High-intensity point-source light; blue light scatters more in the eye. • Effect : Digital eye strain, dry eyes, headaches. • Long-Term Risk : Potential contribution to macular degeneration (though long-term human data is limited). • Particularly Sensitive Populations : Children, seniors, and those with pre-existing eye conditions.
3. Potential Endocrine and Metabolic Effects
• Disrupted sleep caused by nighttime LED exposure is linked to:
Insulin resistance
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Weight gain
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Elevated cortisol levels
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4. Triggering Migraines and Seizures
• Cause : Flicker in low-quality or dimmed LEDs (invisible to the naked eye but neurologically detected). • Effect : Headaches, migraines, and in rare cases, photosensitive epilepsy. • At-Risk Groups : People with light sensitivity, epilepsy, chronic migraines.
5. Mood and Mental Health Effects
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