Afternoon light may be key to fixing Teens' sleep

NCT ID NCT04753190

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether bright light in the afternoon, alone or with morning light, can shift teens' internal body clocks earlier. 84 adolescents aged 18-20 followed a stable sleep schedule and then lived in a lab for a week. Researchers measured melatonin levels to track clock changes. The goal is to find better ways to reduce sleep problems and related health risks in teens.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

bright light exposure

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to better timing of light therapy to help teens sleep earlier and improve daytime functioning.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early mechanistic study, not a treatment trial. Results may not apply to all teens or lead to practical interventions.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

circadian rhythm sleep disorder sleep disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Rush University Medical Center

    Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States