Rising Temperatures Disrupt Sleep Patterns, Posing Serious Health Risks
Increasing global temperatures are significantly affecting sleep quality, raising serious concerns for public health. A large international study has revealed that rising night-time temperatures are reducing both the duration and quality of sleep across populations, with the most severe impact observed among vulnerable groups.
The study, led by researchers from the University of Southern California, found that higher night-time temperatures are disrupting natural sleep cycles worldwide. Sleep duration is declining, sleep onset is being delayed, and overall restfulness is deteriorating. Researchers noted that the impact is particularly pronounced among older adults, women, and people living in socio-economically challenging conditions.
According to the findings, sustained exposure to warmer nights can result in chronic sleep deprivation. Scientists warned that losing sleep on a regular basis can lead to long-term health problems, including cardiovascular disease, weakened immunity, mental health disorders, and reduced cognitive performance. The study highlights that sleep loss caused by rising temperatures could become a major public health challenge if climate trends continue.
Researchers analysed sleep data collected from more than 14,000 participants, covering approximately 1.2 crore recorded nights. The data included information on sleep stages, sleep interruptions, time taken to fall asleep, and weather-related variables. The analysis showed that for every one-degree Celsius rise in night-time temperature, average sleep duration was reduced, with the effect becoming more severe during prolonged heat conditions.
The study also highlighted regional disparities. Populations in warmer and lower-income regions were found to be more vulnerable, as limited access to cooling solutions such as air conditioning intensified the impact of heat on sleep. In contrast, individuals in relatively cooler or economically stronger regions showed better resilience, though sleep disruption was still evident.
Experts further warned that climate change is rapidly increasing the frequency of warm nights. Climate data analysis indicates a sharp rise in extremely warm nights across several regions, including parts of India, where many cities recorded a significant increase in nights with temperatures exceeding 25 degrees Celsius over recent years. This trend, researchers noted, is closely linked to growing reports of sleep-related health complaints.
Public health specialists cautioned that sleep disruption due to heat is not merely a comfort issue but a serious health concern. They emphasised the need for climate-sensitive public health planning, improved urban design, and greater access to cooling solutions, particularly for vulnerable populations. Without timely intervention, experts warned, climate-driven sleep loss could evolve into a widespread health crisis.
