AIIMS On Smartphone Addiction: In today’s digital age, children’s use of mobile phones and other screen devices is increasing rapidly. This increasing trend has increased the concern of parents and medical experts. Recently, doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) have issued an important warning regarding the negative effects of excessive use of mobile phones on children’s health.
AIIMS experts say that the increasing use of mobile phones among children is not only having a bad effect on their eyes but is also having a serious impact on their overall physical and mental development. Doctors have warned that if this continues, eye problems as well as behavioral disorders may increase in children in the future.
Summary of AIIMS warning
| main point | Description |
| screen time limit | no more than 2 hours per day |
| Instructions for young children | Keep children under 2 years of age away from screens |
| effects on eyes | The risk of myopia (nearsightedness) is increasing |
| behavioral effects | Irritability, lack of concentration, sleep problems |
| physical effects | Obesity, lack of physical activity |
| Suggestion | promote outdoor activities |
| routine checkup | Mandatory annual eye examination |
| parental guidance | Parents should monitor children’s screen time |
Effects of mobile phones on children
effects on eyes
Doctors at AIIMS said that excessive use of mobile phones in children is increasing the risk of myopia (nearsightedness). Dr. G.S., head of Dr. RP Center. According to Titiyal, till 2015-16 the percentage of myopia among school children was 10-12%, but this percentage has increased after the Corona epidemic.
Experts believe that if the situation continues like this, by 2050 40-45% of children may become victims of myopia. Apart from this, continuous viewing of screens can also cause dryness, irritation and fatigue in the eyes.
behavioral effects
Changes are also being seen in the behavior of children due to excessive use of mobile phones. The AIIMS study found that:
- 33.1% teenagers suffer from depression
- 24.9% of teenagers show symptoms of anxiety
- 56% of teenagers have the problem of impatience
- Excessive anger was found in 59% of teenagers
Apart from this, lack of concentration, lack of social skills and sleep problems are also being seen in children.
physical effects
Excessive use of mobile phones is reducing the physical activities of children, increasing the risk of obesity. Apart from this, problems like pain in neck and shoulders, headache and eye strain may also occur.
AIIMS guidelines
AIIMS experts have issued some important guidelines for children:
- Screen time limits: Maximum 2 hours of screen time a day for children under 15.
- 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look 20 meters away.
- Proper lighting: The lighting of the room should be good and light should come from behind.
- Correct Posture: Use a table and chair to study, do not read sitting on a sofa or bed.
- Big screen: Use a big screen instead of a small screen.
- Outdoor Activities: Set aside one period at school and one hour daily at home for outdoor activities.
- Regular checkup: Get vision test done for all children once a year.
Age wise guidelines
AIIMS experts have also given some special guidelines according to the age of the children:
- Before 3 years: No screen time
- Before 6 years: No internet access
- Before 9 years: No video games
- Before 12 years: No use of social media
role of parents
The role of parents is most important in controlling children’s screen time. AIIMS experts have suggested some tips for parents:
- Fix a fixed time for using electronic devices at home.
- Along with children, parents should also follow these rules.
- Encourage children to do physical activities.
- Do not use mobile, tablet or TV in the bedroom at night.
- Keep children’s mobile phones in their room at night.
role of schools
AIIMS experts have also given some suggestions for schools:
- Schedule a period for outdoor games in school.
- Get vision test done for all children once a year.
- Make teachers aware about the eye problems of children.
- Educate children about the proper use of digital devices.
positive uses of mobile phones
Although there are disadvantages to excessive use of mobile phones, its correct and limited use can also be beneficial. AIIMS experts point out some positive uses:
- Educational Apps: Educational apps can be used to help in studies.
- Enlightening Videos: Useful and informative videos can be watched for children.
- Family contact: Use video calls to connect with family members who live far away.
- Emergencies: Mobile phones can be useful for contact in case of emergencies.
conclusion
The warning from AIIMS experts is extremely important for the health and development of children. Mobile phones and other digital devices are a necessity today, but their overuse can be harmful. Parents, teachers and society need to work together to control children’s screen time and encourage them to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
It is our responsibility to help children find a balance between the digital world and the real world. By following the guidelines of AIIMS and involving children in physical activities, we can ensure their healthy development.
Disclaimer
This article has been issued in public interest and is based on information provided by experts at AIIMS. However, this is for general guidance and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Every child’s situation is different, so parents should make decisions based on their children’s specific needs. Please consult a qualified physician for any health concerns. Over time, new research and studies may provide new information on this topic.
