Health Risks Increasing with Daylight Saving Time Shift

WASHINGTON (AP) — As much of the United States ‘springs forward’ for daylight saving time on March 9, 2025, experts warn that losing an hour of sleep can have serious repercussions for health. Studies indicate a notable increase in heart attacks and strokes following this time change, which disrupts the body’s internal clock.

The change begins at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday, marking the start of lighter evenings and darker mornings. Most Americans lose an hour of sleep, which can lead to significant sleep disturbances lasting for weeks. ‘The adjustment can be particularly intense for many,’ said Dr. Darien Sutton, an ABC News medical contributor. ‘Our bodies need time to adapt to the new schedule.’

Research has shown that the first few days after the spring transition see a rise in fatal car accidents, primarily in the mornings. This spike in incidents is attributed to sleep deprivation. ‘The lack of sleep can impair judgment and reaction times,’ Sutton noted.

The American Heart Association supports findings suggesting that the Monday immediately following the spring time change sees an uptick in heart attacks. Various factors could combine to exacerbate risks, particularly for individuals already predisposed to cardiac events. ‘Blood is more clot-prone in the morning, which may heighten risks during this period,’ a spokesperson reiterated.

Health experts recommend several strategies to mitigate the disarray caused by daylight saving time. Gradually shifting bedtimes in 15 or 20-minute increments over the course of several nights leading to March 9 can help ease the transition. Rising earlier on day of the switch and exposing oneself to the morning sun can also reset the body’s circadian rhythm.

In addition to cardiovascular concerns, sleep deprivation linked to the time change poses risks for cognitive functioning and increases the likelihood of obesity. ‘Sleep deprivation can affect everything from your heart rate to metabolism,’ warns Dr. Sutton.

The unique impacts of the time change are amplified by the fact that a significant portion of Americans—estimated at a third—are already not meeting recommended sleep guidelines, which call for seven to nine hours each night. This situation compounds the difficulty in adjusting to daylight saving time.

There has been ongoing debate over the necessity of daylight saving time. Advocacy groups, including the American Medical Association, argue for the permanent adoption of standard time, citing the health risks associated with switching clocks twice yearly. ‘Staying on standard time aligns better with human biology and could alleviate some health concerns,’ said a representative from the AMA.

Some states and U.S. territories, including Arizona and Hawaii, do not participate in daylight saving time, opting for standard time year-round. This has spurred discussions in Congress surrounding potential changes to national timekeeping laws.

As communities prepare for the time change, experts encourage everyone to take proactive measures. Simple changes, such as limiting caffeine intake in the evening and turning off screens before bedtime, can facilitate a smoother transition to summer hours.