Boost Your Health: How Poor Posture from Screen Time Fuels Lifestyle Diseases

New Delhi: Many young professionals are dealing with health issues tied to their work habits, especially from sitting long hours in front of screens. Doctors have reported a 30-40% rise in visits for problems like muscle pain, spinal issues, eye strain, and mental health concerns compared to last year. Most of these patients are millennials and Gen Zs, working hard to adapt to rapidly changing job demands, often driven by artificial intelligence.

Terms like “Tech Neck” and “Digital Fatigue Syndrome” now describe common ailments linked to excessive screen time. In some severe cases, patients need medical treatment or even surgery. Seema Grover, head of Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, noted that the demographics of their patients have shifted dramatically in the past few years. Previously, 70% of their walk-in patients were over 60, but now about 60-70% are aged 20-40, primarily younger professionals experiencing postural and biomechanical issues.

Excessive screen time creates physical strain. Grover explained that holding the head forward at a 60-degree angle increases the strain on neck muscles significantly. “This adds six times the load compared to an upright position,” she said. The toll on the body doesn’t stop there; experts also warn about the additional risks of heart and mental health problems.

Ripen Gupta, a cardiac specialist at Max Smart Super Specialty Hospital, highlighted a shocking trend. There has been a 25-30% increase in younger patients, ages 25-35, presenting with hypertension and obesity-related issues. Even conditions like asymptomatic heart failures are becoming more common in people in their 20s.

Conditions such as early bone decline, spinal issues, and stress-related heart irregularities are also on the rise. Prolonged screen usage impacts eye health too, leading to problems like dry eyes and blurred vision. “Computer vision syndrome” is now familiar to many, especially those working long hours on screens.

Amid the growing pressure from competition and fear of job loss to AI, mental health issues have surged as well. Sameer Malhotra, a mental health expert, noted that rising levels of anxiety and depression are linked to both excessive screen time and job-related stress. Kamna Chhibber, a clinical psychologist, pointed out a deeper societal issue. “Workplace pressure is no longer just about job security; it’s about remaining relevant,” she said. This has led to increased feelings of loneliness and emotional exhaustion among many workers.

As workplaces evolve, it’s essential to address not only physical health but also mental well-being. Finding a balance between work and personal life can significantly improve health outcomes. For more comprehensive insights about the impact of sedentary lifestyles, check out this CDC report on the importance of physical activity.

This evolving landscape of health impacts emphasizes the need for changes in workplace culture. Integrating regular breaks, ergonomic setups, and mental health support can foster a healthier work environment.

Source link

screen time and health,lifestyle diseases,posture-related health issues,young professionals health,sedentary lifestyle risks,fortis healthcare