Screens and the Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases in Children: A Growing Concern

8th August 2025

2 minutes read

Screens and the Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases in Children: A Growing Concern

The rise of digital technologies has profoundly changed children’s daily lives worldwide. Tablets, smartphones, televisions, and computers have become ubiquitous companions, especially with the widespread adoption of remote learning. However, prolonged screen exposure raises increasing concerns regarding its impact on health, particularly the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Cardiovascular diseases, long considered exclusively adult conditions, now have roots traceable to childhood. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that early sedentary behaviors, often linked to intensive screen use, are associated with increased cardiac risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance.

The underlying mechanism lies in reduced physical activity levels. Screen time often replaces essential physical exercise critical for optimal cardiovascular development. This sedentary lifestyle leads to decreased cardiorespiratory fitness, metabolic imbalance, and chronic low-grade inflammation, contributing to vascular damage from an early age.

Moreover, screen exposure is frequently accompanied by poor dietary habits, including increased consumption of sugary snacks and saturated fats, worsening children’s lipid profiles and further elevating their risk for future cardiovascular diseases.

Psychological effects related to excessive screen use, such as stress, sleep disturbances, and anxiety, also indirectly promote hormonal and metabolic dysregulation, factors known to impair heart health.

In response to these alarming findings, international health authorities like the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend limiting children’s screen time, while promoting regular physical activity and healthy eating habits. For instance, children aged 5 to 17 are advised to engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily, while screen time should be strictly controlled.

Schools, families, and communities must collaborate to create environments conducive to children’s cardiometabolic health, incorporating active breaks, play spaces, and awareness campaigns on the dangers of excessive screen use.

In conclusion, although screens are now integral to children’s lifestyles, excessive use poses a significant risk of early cardiovascular alterations. Prevention depends on education about balancing screen time, physical activity, and nutrition, essential for safeguarding the heart health of future generations.