Is Your Smartphone Silently harming Your Heart? Cardiologist Warns of Rising Cardiovascular Risks
By Dr. Michael Lee, World-Today-News.com – November 21,2023
In today’s hyper-connected world,our smartphones are indispensable tools. But could endless scrolling and constant connectivity be quietly taking a toll on our most vital organ? Emerging evidence suggests a concerning link between prolonged screen time and increased risk of heart disease, prompting a leading cardiologist to sound the alarm.
Dr.Sanjay Bhojraj, founder of the wellness initiative Well12, recently posed a stark question: “What if your phone wasn’t just draining your time but quietly damaging your heart?” His concern stems from a growing body of research indicating that excessive smartphone use – exceeding five hours a day - can nearly double the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
The dangers aren’t simply about the time spent glued to a screen. Dr. Bhojraj points to a “perfect storm” of factors contributing to this risk. Constant notifications trigger stress responses, disrupted sleep cycles interfere with the body’s natural repair processes, and prolonged periods of sitting contribute to a sedentary lifestyle. These factors collectively lead to higher blood pressure, increased inflammation, obesity, insulin resistance, and a gradual reduction in arterial flexibility – all key contributors to heart disease.
Research Confirms the Connection
Dr. Bhojraj’s warnings aren’t isolated. A 2016 study published in the Anatolian Journal of Cardiology provides compelling scientific backing. Researchers examined 148 healthy individuals and found a clear correlation between increased daily mobile phone use and detrimental changes in heart rate variability (HRV).
HRV is a crucial indicator of autonomic balance – the delicate interplay between the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) and parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) nervous systems. The study revealed that those using their phones for over an hour a day exhibited lower HRV and higher LF/HF ratios, signaling increased stress on the heart’s regulatory system.as the authors concluded, long-term mobile phone use may suppress parasympathetic activity while simultaneously boosting sympathetic activity, ultimately straining the cardiovascular system.
What Can You Do?
while entirely disconnecting isn’t realistic for most, being mindful of your screen time and adopting healthier habits can significantly mitigate the risks.Here are a few steps you can take:
Set Time Limits: Utilize built-in smartphone features or apps to limit daily usage.
Prioritize Sleep: Avoid screen time at least an hour before bed to promote better sleep quality.
Take Frequent Breaks: Get up and move around every 30 minutes to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting.
Practise Mindfulness: Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Regular exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to improve cardiovascular health.
The convenience of smartphones is undeniable, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential impact on our health. By taking proactive steps to manage our screen time and prioritize well-being, we can protect our hearts and enjoy a healthier, more balanced life.
Sources:
Economic Times: https://m.economictimes.com/topic/prolonged-screen-time
Anatolian Journal of Cardiology (Ekici et al., 2016): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5324882/
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