A recent study has raised concerns about the growing screen time among children, linking it to an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.
The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, reveals that even just an additional hour of screen time each day can significantly elevate the likelihood of developing serious metabolic conditions later in life.
The research, conducted by the University of Copenhagen, involved more than 1,000 children aged between 10 and 18. It focused on the relationship between screen time, sleep patterns, and cardiometabolic risk factors such as high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and unhealthy cholesterol levels.
The Impact of Excessive Screen Time
Lead researcher David Horner emphasized that each additional hour of screen time raised the risk of health problems. He noted, “A child with three extra hours of screen time a day would have roughly a quarter to half a standard-deviation higher risk than their peers.”
This increased risk could potentially affect a large number of children globally, leading to earlier onset of conditions like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.
Why Screen Time is a Growing Concern
As children and adolescents spend more time on digital devices—whether it’s phones, tablets, or TVs—health experts warn about the long-term impact of sedentary behavior.
Prolonged screen time not only contributes to physical inactivity but also disrupts sleep, further compounding health risks. Experts suggest that these trends are especially concerning for younger populations, who may be more vulnerable than adults.
Strategies to Limit Screen Time
Experts recommend limiting children’s screen time to just two hours per day, excluding time spent on schoolwork. Encouraging physical activities such as cycling, walking, or engaging in sports can help counteract the negative effects of too much screen exposure.
Additionally, promoting device-free time, especially before bed, can improve sleep quality and overall health.
A Global Issue with Local Implications
The concerns raised by the study are not just local. Countries around the world, including Pakistan and other regions in South Asia, have seen children increasingly relying on digital devices for both entertainment and education.
Public health experts stress the importance of early interventions, such as digital literacy programs and public awareness campaigns, to help reduce screen time and its associated risks.
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