Screen Time Linked to Increased Heart Disease Risk in Children

New Study Reveals Link Between Excessive Screen Time and Heart Disease

Boston, MA – August 9, 2025 – A groundbreaking study published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association indicates a important correlation between prolonged daily screen time and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers at Massachusetts general Hospital followed over 120,000 adults for a period of five years, meticulously tracking their screen usage habits and cardiovascular health outcomes.

The study,led by Dr. Emily Carter, a cardiologist specializing in preventative medicine, found that individuals who spent more than four hours per day engaged with screens – encompassing smartphones, tablets, computers, and television – exhibited a 35% higher risk of developing heart disease compared to those with less than two hours of daily screen time. This risk was independent of other established cardiovascular risk factors such as diet,exercise,smoking,and family history.

Researchers categorized screen time into four groups: less than two hours, two to four hours, four to six hours, and more than six hours. The most substantial increase in risk was observed in the group exceeding six hours of daily screen exposure, demonstrating a 53% higher likelihood of heart disease.The study specifically identified a link between prolonged sedentary behavior associated with screen time and increased levels of inflammatory markers in the blood, contributing to arterial damage.

Understanding the Cardiovascular impact

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally, accounting for approximately 17.9 million deaths annually, according to the World Health Association’s 2024 data. The American Heart Association estimates that nearly half of all American adults have some form of cardiovascular disease. This new research adds a critical layer to understanding the modifiable risk factors contributing to this epidemic.

dr. Carter explained, “Our findings suggest that the cumulative effect of prolonged sitting, reduced physical activity, and potential disruptions to sleep patterns associated with excessive screen time can substantially compromise cardiovascular health. It’s not simply *what* you’re doing on the screen, but *how much* time you’re dedicating to it.”

The study also explored the impact of different types of screen activities. While all screen time showed a correlation with increased risk, passive viewing – such as watching television – appeared to be more strongly associated with adverse outcomes than active engagement – like video conferencing or online learning. Researchers hypothesize this is due to the lower energy expenditure and increased likelihood of unhealthy snacking during passive viewing.

Mitigating the Risks: Practical Steps

Experts recommend incorporating regular breaks into screen-based activities. The “20-20-20 rule” – looking at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes – can definitely help reduce eye strain and encourage movement. Furthermore, prioritizing regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and ensuring adequate sleep are crucial for mitigating the cardiovascular risks associated with modern lifestyles.

The national Institutes of Health (NIH) currently recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week for adults.Integrating these recommendations into daily routines, alongside mindful screen time management, can contribute to a healthier heart and a longer life.

Future research will focus on identifying specific interventions to minimize the negative cardiovascular effects of screen time, including the progress of apps and wearable technologies designed to promote movement and mindful screen usage. Dr. Carter’s team is also planning