Prevalence of Social Jet Lag and Associated Sleep and Metabolic Health Risks in a Young Adult Population of Lucknow City of UP State in India

Abstract

Social jet lag (SJL), defined as the mismatch between biological circadian rhythms and socially imposed schedules, has emerged as an important public health concern among young adults. Persistent circadian misalignment has been associated with sleep disturbances, impaired daytime functioning, and metabolic health risks. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of social jet lag and its associated sleep and metabolic health outcomes among young adults in Lucknow city. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 104 adults aged 18–40 years in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire incorporating demographic details, work schedules, meal patterns, sleep–wake characteristics, and the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire (MCTQ). Sleep parameters on working days and free days were compared using paired t-tests, while associations between SJL and health outcomes were analyzed using chi-square tests and odds ratios. Statistical significance was considered at p<0.05. The majority of participants exhibited an evening chronotype (44.2%), followed by morning (28.8%) and intermediate types (26.9%). Social jet lag was present in 77% of participants. Significant differences were observed between working and free days for sleep duration (5.46 ± 1.36 vs. 8.16 ± 1.47 hours; p=0.002), bedtime (p=0.029), wake-up latency (p=0.049), and sleep latency (p=0.019). Irregular meal timing was reported by 55.77% of participants, while 81.1% experienced work–sleep conflict. Social jet lag was significantly associated with weight gain (OR=1.98; p=0.040) and post-weekend fatigue, irritability, and reduced focus (OR=1.76; p=0.041). In conclusion, social jet lag was highly prevalent among young adults and was significantly associated with sleep disturbances, functional impairment, and early metabolic health risks. Early screening and circadian-aligned lifestyle interventions may help reduce long-term health consequences associated with circadian misalignment.