Explore the various ways excessive mobile use can affect the physical and mental health of young users.
Excessive mobile use can lead to various physical health issues.
Prolonged use of mobile devices, especially in poor posture, can lead to musculoskeletal problems such as neck strain, shoulder pain, and repetitive strain injuries. The World Health Organization has also classified Radio Frequency radiation as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on an increased risk for glioma, a type of brain cancer.
A study found that 79% of the population between the ages 18 and 44 have their cell phones with them almost all the time, with only 2 hours of their waking day spent without their cell phone on hand.
Extended screen time can cause digital eye strain and may increase the risk of myopia.
The American Optometric Association reports that extended use of digital devices leads to Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), causing eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision. Moreover, a study published in Ophthalmology found a 28% increase in the risk of myopia for every additional hour children spend using digital devices per week.
Nearly 60% of Americans experience symptoms of digital eye strain due to prolonged use of digital devices.
Overuse of mobile devices may affect memory, attention span, and cognitive development.
A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that high mobile phone use was associated with decreased cognitive function, particularly in the areas of attention and working memory. This is especially concerning for children and adolescents whose brains are still developing.
Research shows that the mere presence of a smartphone reduces cognitive capacity, even when the device is turned off.
Nighttime use of mobile devices can disrupt sleep patterns and quality.
The blue light emitted by screens on cell phones, tablets, and computers interferes with the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. A study in the journal Pediatrics found that children who use devices at bedtime have significantly worse and less sleep, as well as increased fatigue in the daytime.
Children who use digital devices before bed have been found to get 1 hour less sleep on average compared to those who don't use devices before bed.