Medical studies link light exposure and eyelid deposits to heart risks

New medical research highlights distinct physical indicators and environmental factors linked to increased cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risks.

A study from Tulane University, published in the European Heart Journal, suggests that excessive light exposure during sleep may negatively impact heart structure and function. Researchers tracked over 11,000 adults in the United Kingdom using wrist sensors to measure light levels, later conducting MRI scans to observe changes in the heart. This builds on previous findings suggesting that light exposure during sleep can disrupt the biological clock and increase the risk of heart attacks.

Separately, researchers from Stanford University have identified a link between xanthelasma—yellowish fatty deposits on the eyelids—and a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and transient ischemic attacks (TIA). An analysis of over 17,000 individuals published in the journal Atherosclerosis found that those with these skin changes experienced significantly higher rates of cardiovascular events compared to a control group. The study noted that the risk remained elevated even in individuals without high blood lipid levels, suggesting cholesterol may not be the sole contributing factor.