Outdoor Artificial Lighting Linked to Increased Risk of Vision Loss: Study

But expert urges caution in interpreting findings due to limitations in estimating light exposure.

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The glare of streetlights, neon signs, and other outdoor lighting fixtures may do more than just disrupt sleep cycles. It may also increase the risk of vision loss, according to a new study.

Researchers in South Korea have found exposure to artificial light at night can raise the chances of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), characterized by damage to the retina. The progressive disease impairs central vision, making everyday activities like reading and driving difficult.

AMD Can Lead to Blindness

AMD is a progressive eye disease that damages the macula, a small area in the retina’s center. While it can potentially cause irreversible blindness, it results in severely reduced central vision for most people. AMD has both genetic and nongenetic risk factors.