2023-07-24 14:04:28
Study Shows Link Between Screen Time and Metabolic Diseases in Children
With the rise in technology and the constant use of electronic devices, concerns over the impact on children and adolescents have grown. Parents worry about the physical and psychological health effects of excessive screen time. A recent study conducted by researchers in New Zealand and published in the journal Pediatrics has shed light on this issue.
The study followed hundreds of children in New Zealand from 1973 until they reached the age of 45. Researchers found that increased screen time in childhood and adolescence was associated with a higher chance of developing metabolic diseases, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, in adulthood.
Funded by the New Zealand Health Research Council, the study stated, “The amount of time spent watching television during childhood and adolescence is associated with the risk of developing metabolic syndrome in mid-adulthood. Interventions to reduce screen time for children and young people may have long-term health benefits.”
Metabolic syndrome is a combination of various health issues that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, according to the Mayo Clinic. The findings of this study suggest that excessive screen time may contribute to the development of these conditions later in life.
Dr. Bob Hancox, the main supervisor of the study, clarified that the study does not attribute television itself as the cause of these health effects. Rather, it suggests that the sedentary behavior associated with screen time leads to a lack of physical activity. Additionally, exposure to advertisements for unhealthy foods may contribute to poor eating habits.
Sitting for long periods to watch TV or use electronic devices can lead to weight gain and a lack of fitness. Dr. Veronica Johnson, an expert in internal medicine and pediatrics, emphasized the importance of supporting parents in promoting physical activity among their children.
To combat the potential risks, experts recommend regulating screen time for children and adolescents. It is crucial to ensure that they engage in healthy activities, eat nutritious foods, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
As technology continues to advance and electronic devices become more prevalent in our lives, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of children. By educating parents and implementing strategies to reduce excessive screen time, we can help safeguard the physical and psychological health of the younger generation.]
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