Spain moved clocks forward this past weekend, but scientists warn the impact could be more serious than just losing an hour’s sleep.

At 2am on March 29, the clocks jumped forward to 3am. While many see it as a minor inconvenience that brings longer evenings, research suggests it can trigger real risks to health and safety.

A major review published in the European Journal of Epidemiology analysed 157 studies across 36 countries and found a clear pattern.

In the days following the clock change, heart attacks increase, particularly during the first three days.

At the same time, fatal road accidents also rise, especially during the first week.

The reason? A disruption to the body’s internal clock.

Researchers say even a one-hour shift can affect sleep patterns, hormone release and body temperature, putting added strain on the cardiovascular system.

Why it hits harder than expected

Sleep deprivation slows reaction times, reduces concentration and increases fatigue, all of which are critical when it comes to driving.

In countries like Spain, where road traffic is high, that combination can prove deadly.

Are there any benefits?

There is one upside, as with more daylight in the evenings, violent crime tends to fall slightly, as streets are busier and better lit.

But researchers argue that benefit does not outweigh the risks to health and safety.

Europe still can’t agree

Despite growing scientific evidence, the debate over scrapping the clock change remains unresolved.

Spain has signalled support for a fixed time year-round – but across Europe, there is still no agreement.

Northern countries favour winter time, while southern nations prefer summer time for longer evenings.

Seven years after the European Commission first proposed ending the change, nothing has been decided.