A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association highlights the growing concern over excessive screen time among children and young adults, linking it to heightened risks for cardiometabolic diseases such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance. Conducted by researchers from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, the study underscores the importance of balancing screen habits to protect long-term heart and metabolic health.
Key Findings
- Screen Time and Heart Health:
- Each additional hour of screen time increased cardiometabolic risk scores by 08 standard deviations in 10-year-olds and 0.13 standard deviations in 18-year-olds.
- For children spending three extra hours per day on screens, their risk was 25-50% higher than peers with less screen exposure.
- Impact of Sleep on Risk:
- Sleep duration and timing played a significant role in moderating risk.
- Shorter sleep duration intensified the link between screen time and cardiometabolic risk, with 12% of the association explained by insufficient sleep.
- Biological Evidence:
- Researchers identified a “screen-time fingerprint” in blood metabolite changes, showing potential biological impacts of excessive screen time.
- These metabolic changes were linked to early signs of cardiovascular risk in childhood and adolescence, potentially carrying into adulthood.
- Screen Time Trends:
- Among participants, screen time increased with age:
- Six-year-olds averaged two hours/day.
- 10-year-olds averaged 3.2 hours/day.
- 18-year-olds averaged 6.1 hours/day.
- Among participants, screen time increased with age:
Expert Insights
Dr David Horner, lead author of the study, emphasised that “limiting discretionary screen time in childhood and adolescence may protect long-term heart and metabolic health.” He also highlighted the importance of balanced daily routines, particularly ensuring adequate sleep.
Dr Amanda Marma Perak from Northwestern University, who was not involved in the study, advised parents to model healthy screen habits and encourage earlier bedtimes to mitigate risks. “Boredom breeds brilliance and creativity,” she noted, urging families to foster non-screen activities.
Implications for K-12 Education Stakeholders
This research presents a critical opportunity for schools, teachers, and parents to address screen habits and their health implications:- For Schools: Schools can implement awareness programs about the risks of excessive screen time and promote physical activity and healthy sleep schedules.
- For Teachers: Educators can design lesson plans that minimise unnecessary screen use and incorporate screen-free activities into the curriculum.
- For Parents: Parents should set clear boundaries on screen use at home, promote screen-free family times, and encourage outdoor play and creative pursuits.
Conclusion
This study adds to growing evidence that excessive screen time poses significant health risks for youth, particularly when it disrupts sleep. By addressing screen habits early, families and educators can help protect the long-term heart and metabolic health of children and teens.
For the full article, visit: Excessive screen time among youth may pose heart health risks.
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