What happens when our natural sleep-wake rhythms are disrupted by shift work, screen exposure, or late dinners? Could this have long-term consequences for our health? These are some of the questions addressed by the new research project led by Dr. Trinidad Dierssen Sotos and Dr. Juan Irure Ventura, both researchers at IDIVAL from the Epidemiology and Public Health Group and the Immunopathology Group, respectively.
The study, funded by the Carlos III Health Institute under the AES 2024 call, focuses on analyzing how circadian disruption (that is, the alteration of our natural sleep-wake cycles) could contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, depression, or cardiovascular diseases.
One of the most innovative aspects of the project is its aim to study whether chronic low-grade inflammation — a type of persistent and silent inflammation in the body — acts as a bridge between these disrupted rhythms and the onset of health problems. To do this, they will analyze responses and data from over 25,000 participants of the Cantabria Cohort (CoCAN group), focusing on factors such as chronotype (whether we are more “morning” or “evening” people), gender, sleep habits, exposure to artificial light at night, and much more.
Additionally, a subgroup of 1,000 individuals (the CoCIR group), already participants in Cantabria Cohort, will be selected for a more detailed analysis. In this subgroup, inflammation will be measured through more comprehensive blood tests, questionnaires will be validated using activity trackers and light meters, and additional tests such as blood pressure monitoring will be included.
With this research, the goal is not only to better understand how our daily habits affect long-term health but also to open new pathways for personalized prevention of chronic diseases. Keep an eye on your inboxes, because we’ve already sent you the questionnaire!