TDNet Discover

Screen use is rising in the adolescent population. Current literature is inconsistent in determining or even describing the health consequences associated with the increased use of screens. This systematic review compiles recent relevant research on the negative health effects of screen use among adolescents. Eight studies total (two systematic reviews, two cross sectional surveys, and four longitudinal cohort studies) meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were selected from the relevant databases PubMed, Science-Direct, Google Scholar, MEDLINE Complete, and CINAHL Complete. The data were extracted, graded, organized, and analyzed for correlation using appropriate tools from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute for grading and extraction. Three categories of negative health effects were drawn out: the negative effects of screen time on adolescent mental health, sleep, and physical health. The results were underwhelming with the exceptions of increased anxiety, depression, and psychological wellbeing, and decreased quality and quantity of sleep associated with increased screen time. Regarding negative adolescent physical health effects with extended screen use, no correlations were found with increased body weight or adiposity, decreased pulmonary function, or myopia. Several limitations existed amongst the data, primarily most studies relied on self-reporting for accumulation of analysis material, calling into question the accuracy of some studies’ metrics. Furthermore, the research team relied on articles available without purchase, which potentially reduced the amount of studies incorporated into the systematic review by eight. Health care providers should inquire about patients’ screen use habits routinely and encourage reduction in line with CDC’s one hour to one hour and a half limit recommendation. More research needs to be completed regarding specific screen use as it relates to health concerns. Such studies with NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF SCREEN TIME iv better control of screen time variables and precise and accurate metrics would potentially yield more useful data in determining effects of screen use behavior.