#Hospitallighting

A growing body of research now points to a troubling reality for millions worldwide: exposure to artificial light after dark—whether from smartphones, bright hospital lamps, or night shifts—may be fundamentally rewiring the human brain, with ripple effects throughout the body. New findings highlight the health risks tied to Thailand’s own rapidly urbanizing, brightly lit environment, raising concerns for workers and families across the nation.

Rapid urbanization in Thailand has brought the glow of artificial light to every corner, from Bangkok’s neon-lit streets to rural provinces seeing a surge in 24-hour service culture. While most Thais associate bright lighting with modern comfort and safety, scientists are finding that our brains remain hardwired for ancient, natural cycles of light and darkness—a system increasingly disrupted by modern habits. According to recent research by leading neuroscientists at West Virginia University, the effects extend well beyond sleeplessness: chronic exposure to artificial light at night has been shown to disturb our body’s master clock, or circadian rhythm, which in turn can weaken the immune system, increase inflammation, change appetite-regulating hormones, and disrupt mood.

New research shows that exposure to artificial light after dark can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, affecting sleep, metabolism, mood, and immune function. In Thailand’s fast-urbanizing landscape, bright night lighting is common in homes, workplaces, and public spaces, making these findings highly relevant for Thai health.

Urban growth has brought constant illumination from Bangkok’s neon streets to smaller cities embracing 24-hour services. Although bright lighting is convenient, experts warn that the body still responds to circadian cues. Researchers explain that chronic nighttime light can disturb the circadian rhythm, potentially weakening immunity, triggering inflammation, altering hunger hormones, and influencing mood.