Americans turned their clocks back again, sparking fresh debate over this century-old practice. Studies now reveal the health impacts of these bi-annual time shifts.
Dr. Sarah Chen, a sleep researcher at Stanford University, sees patients struggling each year.
“The human body never fully adjusts to these artificial time changes,” she explains. “It’s like having permanent jet lag twice a year.”
Recent data from the Sleep Research Society shows a 24% spike in heart attacks the week after time changes. Car accidents increase by 6% in the days following clock shifts.
“We’re fighting against our natural biological rhythms,” says Dr. James Morton, chrono biologist at Harvard Medical School. “Our internal clocks align with the sun, not government mandates.”
The economic impact is significant. The US loses $434 million annually due to workplace accidents and lost productivity after time changes, according to 2023 Commerce Department figures.
Nineteen states have passed laws to end the practice. However, they need federal approval to make the change permanent.
The European Union voted to end clock changes in 2019. Most EU countries will stop the practice by 2025.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine supports ending time changes. They recommend permanent standard time for better public health outcomes.
Critics argue keeping Daylight Savings Time helps reduce evening energy usage. However, modern studies show minimal energy savings of just 0.34%.
The US Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act in 2022. The bill stalled in the House but gains new support each year.
Parents especially feel the impact.
“My kids take weeks to adjust,” says Maria Rodriguez, mother of three in Chicago.
“Their sleep schedules get completely disrupted.“
Business groups increasingly oppose time changes. The National Retail Federation reports decreased shopping activity in the weeks following clock shifts.
Dr. Chen recommends gradually adjusting sleep schedules before time changes. “But that’s just a band-aid,” she notes. “We need permanent solution.”
Medical research shows maintaining consistent sleep patterns improves:
- Heart health
- Mental alertness
- Immune function
- Workplace safety
- Overall wellbeing
States awaiting federal approval have bipartisan support for ending time changes. Public opinion polls show 63% of Americans favor picking one permanent time.
“The evidence is clear,” Dr. Morton concludes.
“Continuing this outdated practice causes more harm than good. It’s time for change.“
Health experts encourage citizens to contact their representatives about ending bi-annual time changes. The next congressional vote could happen by late 2024.
Until then, Americans face another year of disrupted sleep patterns. The spring forward change remains scheduled for March 10, 2024.