Countries that have a higher level of artificial light at night tend to have elevated levels of prostate cancer, according to new research.
A study carried out at the University of Haifa in Isreal found that looked at the correlation between artificial light and three types of cancer in men: prostate, lung and large intestine.
The scientists used advanced statistical analysis to take into account additional factors as well, including electricity consumption, percentage of urban population and socioeconomic conditions.
Countries with the highest levels of exposure to artificial light at night had an 80 percent higher incidence of prostate cancer, compared to nations with the lowest levels of exposure.
The researchers suggested that some of the causes of this disparity could include artificial lights potential to suppress of melatonin production, suppress the immune system and confuse the biological clock.
“This link should be taken into account in planning the countrys energy policies,” the team proposed.
Previous research published in the December 2005 issue of Cancer Research found that artificial light may play a role in the development of breast cancer.