Screen Time Hurts Heart Health

[kit_hung]

Now family, some researchers have come up with some serious findings. They say that children and teens who spend too much time in front of a screen without getting enough sleep are at increased risk of developing heart disease and metabolic problems later in life. This story is from the Journal of the American Heart Association and shows that screen time on phones, TV games and laptops contributes to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and insulin resistance.

The data was analyzed in Denmark for 10-year-olds and 18-year-old teens. Every additional hour of screen time increased the risk score. A child who spends an extra three hours in front of a screen increases the risk by a quarter to a half of a standard deviation compared to their peers. It seems small, but in the long run, it's a big deal.

Researchers used machine learning to look at blood patterns and found that screen time changes biology very early on. And when you combine it with little sleep, the effects are even greater. Children who sleep little and use screens a lot had a higher risk.

Experts say that on average, teens now spend five to six hours a day on screens. This can be damaging to health without anyone knowing. The best way is to reduce screen time and ensure a balance in their daily routine. Parents are also advised to set a good example. Put phones away during mealtimes, encourage family time without screens, and make sure children go to bed early.

 

[magnus2022]

Parents should set good example by making sure that children have enough rest and go to bed early. Technology is here with us but we have to make sure we don't abuse it

 

[Kross]

Screen time should be minimized for both kids and adults. Discipline is the key to achieve that control.

 

[Starmix]

I agree with that report. It was already proven that many died because of prolonged use of the computer or laptop. Two years ago, a teen in my country died of a heart attack because he didn't stop playing games for three days and nights. He did not sleep or eat, and on the third day, he fell asleep in front of the computer screen and never woke up. He died weak and hungry. That was an act of foolishness.