EXCESSIVE screen time among children and adolescents has become a pressing public health concern, with mounting evidence linking digital media overuse to adverse physical, mental, and developmental outcomes. A recent review highlights that while digital platforms can provide educational and social opportunities, unregulated and prolonged use carries significant risks for young populations.
Physical health consequences are increasingly evident. Prolonged sedentary screen behaviors are associated with higher rates of obesity, poor sleep quality, visual impairments, and musculoskeletal pain. These outcomes raise alarms for clinicians as the reliance on devices has intensified since the COVID-19 pandemic, further embedding digital exposure into daily routines.
Equally concerning are the psychological and emotional effects. Youths spending more than 2 to 4 hours per day on screens demonstrate higher prevalence of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. The review notes a troubling association with self-harm and suicidal behaviors, underscoring the urgent need for preventative strategies.
Cognitive and developmental impacts are also well documented. Extended exposure has been linked to reduced academic performance, delayed language development, and impaired social interactions. While interactive and high-quality educational media may offer benefits, the threshold at which screen time transitions from beneficial to harmful remains under debate.
Global guidelines recommend restricted screen time, particularly for children under the age of 5, yet adherence remains inconsistent. The review emphasizes the importance of age-appropriate limits, structured family media plans, and parental involvement in shaping healthier digital behaviors.
For healthcare professionals, the findings underscore the necessity of integrating screen time discussions into pediatric and adolescent care. By addressing digital habits alongside diet, exercise, and sleep, clinicians can help guide families toward balanced media use. The evidence also provides a foundation for broader public health initiatives and policy development aimed at mitigating the long-term risks of excessive digital exposure in youth.
Reference:
Khanani M et al. Digital Media Use and Screen Time Exposure Among Youths: A Lifestyle-Based Public Health Concern. Cureus. 2025;17(7):e88373.
