Electronic device and social network use and sleep outcomes among adolescents: the EHDLA study

Authors: Gaya AR, Brum R, Brites K, Gaya A, de Borba Schneiders L, Duarte Junior MA, López-Gil JF

Year: 2023 May 19

Category: Public Health

Journal: BMC Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15579-x

URL: https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-023-15579-x

Abstract

Overview

The EHDLA study examines the significant risk factors between electronic device usage and sleep outcomes among adolescents. It particularly focuses on individual devices and social media platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp.

Methods

  • A comprehensive cross-sectional study involving 1101 Spanish adolescents aged 12-17.
  • Data were collected via an ad hoc questionnaire covering aspects such as sleep, psychosocial health, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and sports participation.
  • Statistical analysis included linear and Poisson regression, taking into account several covariates.

Findings

  • Cell phone usage showed a strong correlation with decreased sleep duration.
  • Significant gender differences were observed with a higher prevalence of sleep-related problems associated with cell phone and video game usage in boys.
  • In girls, significant associations were found between cell phone use and sleep-related problems. WhatsApp usage also correlated significantly with sleep issues.
  • The Mediterranean diet emerged as a key factor in mitigating sleep disturbances.

Conclusion

The study underscores the link between the use of cell phones, video games, and social media networks and sleep-related problems among adolescents, highlighting the need for monitoring and intervention strategies to mitigate these health risks.

adolescents sleep electronic devices social network health risk
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