Could abandoning daylight saving time make Americans healthier? A Stanford study suggests it might.
Story Overview
- Stanford Medicine researchers highlight health risks of daylight saving time (DST).
- Hawaii and Arizona do not observe DST, potentially leading to healthier lifestyles.
- Studies link DST transitions to increased health issues and accidents.
- Debate continues over abolishing DST or making it permanent.
Health Implications of Daylight Saving Time
Daylight saving time transitions have been linked to a range of negative health effects. Stanford Medicine researchers emphasize the increased risks of cardiovascular events, mood disorders, and traffic accidents following clock changes. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) supports abolishing these seasonal time changes to prioritize public health, advocating for permanent standard time. This recommendation is based on robust evidence that disrupting natural circadian rhythms can lead to both short-term and long-term health issues.
If you already dread changing the clocks, a new study from sleep researchers at Stanford Medicine may have you researching a move to Hawaii or Arizona, the two states that do not observe daylight saving time. https://t.co/d4WVnksY0v
— WNCT (@wnct9) September 18, 2025
The debate over DST isn’t new, but recent studies have added weight to arguments against it. Research continues to document the immediate spike in heart attacks and strokes after the clocks spring forward or fall back. Sleep medicine experts argue that these transitions disrupt sleep patterns, leading to increased fatigue and decreased mental acuity, which could contribute to a rise in accidents and workplace errors.
The Unique Cases of Hawaii and Arizona
Hawaii and Arizona stand out as states that do not observe daylight saving time. This decision is largely due to their geographic locations, where daylight hours remain relatively constant throughout the year. Residents in these states enjoy a more stable circadian rhythm, potentially avoiding the health risks associated with DST transitions. The non-observance of DST in these states presents a practical example of what life could be like if the rest of the country followed suit.
While some argue that DST provides economic benefits, such as increased evening daylight that could boost retail and leisure activities, health experts prioritize the well-being of the population. The cases of Hawaii and Arizona challenge the necessity of DST, suggesting that a more consistent time system could lead to healthier lives.
Ongoing Debate and Legislative Efforts
The legislative debate over DST is ongoing. While individual states like Hawaii and Arizona have opted out, the rest of the country grapples with whether to make DST permanent or abolish it altogether. The AASM and other health advocates continue to push for change, citing the substantial body of evidence highlighting the risks associated with clock changes. Congress and state legislatures are under pressure to consider both the scientific findings and public opinion on the matter.
Despite the challenges in achieving national consensus, the conversation around DST is gaining momentum. Public awareness about the health implications of DST is growing, and lawmakers are responding to calls for reform. The ultimate decision will likely weigh the economic interests against the compelling health data presented by researchers.
The Broader Impact of Daylight Saving Time
The implications of daylight saving time extend beyond individual health. Economically, the increased healthcare costs and lost productivity due to health events and accidents following DST transitions are significant. Socially, many people express dissatisfaction with the biannual clock changes, which can cause confusion and inconvenience. Politically, the issue remains contentious, with gridlock preventing any national policy change thus far.
Americans could be healthier without daylight saving time, Stanford study suggests https://t.co/qQybotOwyj
— KTLA (@KTLA) September 18, 2025
As the debate continues, the health risks associated with DST transitions remain a critical concern. The evidence suggests that aligning time policies with biological rhythms could improve public health outcomes. The decision to retain, abolish, or reform DST will require careful consideration of both scientific research and societal needs.
Sources:
American Academy of Sleep Medicine
