Digital screen time during the COVID-19 pandemic: a public health concern

Abstract

Due to the restrictions imposed to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, different population groups have adapted to varying screen time levels, which may have profound implications on their physical and mental wellbeing. Several empirical studies included in this review reported a sudden upward change in screen time across different population groups. A higher number of people with increased screen time compared to their pre-pandemic state and prolonged duration of total screen time substantiates such assertions. The available evidence suggests that screen time is associated with obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, myopia, depression, sleep disorders, and several non-communicable diseases. This elevated burden of diseases is more prevalent among individuals who have sedentary lifestyles and other unhealthy behaviors that are likely to increase during quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19. Hence, it is critical to assess the adverse health outcomes that may appear as long-term consequences of such behavior. Researchers and practitioners need to revisit the available guidelines and incorporate evidence-based interventions for preventing unhealthy screen time among the affected individuals. Such interventions may address harmful behaviors associated with screen time and promote active lifestyles that may improve health across populations during and after this pandemic.