Screen Time Research Articles

"Because of english-language television channels": the accidental impact of screen time on children's language acquisition

Background: In the 21st century, the use of technology among children has grown rapidly, making screen time an essential aspect of their language development.Aim: This study aims to explore the impact of exposure to English-language cartoons on the language abilities of preschool children, specifically for S, a 5-year-old child.Method: The research method used is qualitative, employing observation and interview techniques involving S's parents and caregivers as subjects. Data were collected through direct observation and in-depth interviews to understand S's parenting patterns and the use of screen time in daily life. This study offers a new perspective by exploring the impact of unintentional exposure to English-language media as an innovative language acquisition strategy, particularly in the context of early childhood in Indonesia, where similar studies are scarce.Results: The research results indicate that although S experiences speech delays, exposure to English-language cartoons through screen time positively contributes to the development of their English language skills. Interventions by the parents, such as bilingual communication and speech therapy, have accelerated the improvement of these language skills.Conclusion: This study concludes that directed media exposure, supported by active parental involvement, can enhance children's language skills despite initial challenges. Thus, the study emphasizes the importance of effective supervision and management of screen time to support optimal language development.

See us, hear us! children, adolescents and families in Saskatchewan coping with mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT Purpose To examine the lived experiences of children and adolescents coping with mental health issues and seeking mental health services in Saskatchewan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods In our descriptive phenomenological qualitative study, we interviewed forty-six individuals, including children aged 8–15 and their parents. Thematic analysis was applied to interpret the interview data. Results Our analysis identified three key themes: pyscho-behavioural impact, academic impact, and social impact. The pandemic adversely affected children due to factors like changes in behaviours such as increased screen time and decreased physical activity, limited access to mental health services, and disruptions to schooling and social interactions. Coping mechanisms varied, ranging from the utilization of available mental health supports and services to individual and family-based strategies. Disparities in timely access to mental health services were evident, with financially stable families accessing private services, while others struggled, particularly in rural areas. Families demonstrated resilience through parental efforts to seek balance and prioritize safety amidst COVID-19 challenges. Conclusions Social connectedness served as a crucial buffer against pandemic-induced stress. Children faced difficulty in accessing timely mental health services and supports. Echoing participant experiences, our findings emphasize the urgency of targeted interventions and policy adjustments to address existing gaps in mental health service accessibility and availability.

The association between screen exposure and autism spectrum disorder in children: meta-analysis.

The goal is to provide light on the contentious relationship between screen exposure and childhood autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By conducting two meta-analyses that showed a potential association, including screen exposure effect by ASD and ASD risk by screen exposure, we aimed to clarify the potential causality between screen exposure and childhood ASD. The literature published up to December 2023 were systematically collected, and the combined effect values of weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) and odds ratio (OR) and 95 % CI were calculated using two meta-analyses using the STATA 12.0. A total of 197,357 children, including 4,599 childhood ASD, were finally included in 10 studies. The results showed that children with ASD had higher levels of screen time exposure than healthy controls (combined effect value WMD=0.27, 95 % CI: 0.12-0.41, p<0.001). An increased risk of ASD was also found in children with high screen exposure compared to the low screen exposure group (OR=1.5395 % CI: 1.14-2.06). The development of childhood ASD may be associated with screen exposure. Future prospective studies are needed to verify the relationship between screen exposure and ASD in children.

Insights into adolescent sleep and mental health in rural area of Northwestern China

Adolescents in affluent nations have experienced a decline in sleep duration, associated with adverse outcomes such as behavioral issues and health concerns. However, the connection between sleep and mental well-being during adolescence, particularly in developing regions like rural China, remains underexplored. A cross-sectional study of 18,516 adolescents in 124 junior high schools in Ningxia, China, utilized the strengths and difficulties questionnaire to assess mental health. The findings highlighted a complex, nonlinear link between sleep duration and mental health, with a U-shaped trend for overall difficulties and an inverse U-shape for prosocial behavior. The study also explored potential mechanisms behind these relationships, suggesting that time allocation to activities such as screen time and outdoor activities could mediate the effects of sleep duration on mental health. Longer sleep durations could lead to less screen time and more outdoor engagement, both of which positively affect mental well-being. Balanced sleep duration is crucial for adolescent mental health. The study calls for interventions to improve sleep hygiene and mental health services in rural areas, emphasizing the need for policy support to address sleep deprivation and its impact on mental well-being.

The association between melatonin-containing food consumption and sleep/meal timing and behavior in children with language difficulties

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to investigate the sleep characteristics, circadian rhythms, behavior, and postnatal development of children with and without language difficulties (LDs) and the association of these variables with melatonin-containing food (FMT) consumption. The study involved parents who anonymously and voluntarily provided their children’s personal data and assessed LDs, bedtime, meal timing, behavioral problems, gross motor skill development, and FMT consumption. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the associations between study variables. A total of 587 children were examined, with mean age M (SD) 5.5 (2.4) years, (range: 2–12 years), and 44.2% were boys. Children with LD had delayed sleep onset (β = 0.09; R 2 = 0.007), increased sleep latency (β = 0.11; R 2 = 0.014), social jetlag (β = 0.10; R 2 = 0.009), screen time (β = 0.14; R 2 = 0.022), and behavioral problems (β = 0.13–0.35; R 2 = 0.016–0.142); decreased gestational age at birth (β = -0.09; R 2 = 0.007), and delayed development of gross motor skills in the postpartum period (β = 0.11–0.21; R 2 = 0.012–0.064). The children’s average FMT consumption was 2087.6 ± 2401.3 ng/d. Children with the highest FMT consumption had lower rates of LDs (β = -0.11; R 2 = 0.010), social jetlag (β = -0.08; R 2 = 0.007), and eating jetlag (β = -0.12; R 2 = 0.013); fever behavioral problems (β = -0.09 – −0.10; R 2 = 0.007–0.057); and less delayed eating phase (β = -0.11; R 2 = 0.012), and development of gross motor skills in the postpartum period (β = -0.10 – −0.12; R 2 = 0.009–0.014). In summary, LDs in children were associated with higher rates of circadian misalignment, sleep, behavioral, and developmental dysfunctions, and higher FMT consumption was associated with lower rates of circadian misalignment, behavioral, and developmental dysfunctions. The data obtained indicate the need for a detailed study of the state of the circadian system in preschool and primary school children with language difficulties, which will serve as a rationale for the use of chronotherapy principles for the treatment of this neurological dysfunction.

Examining the relationship between language development, executive function, and screen time: A systematic review.

This systematic review study examines the relationship between language development, executive function, and screen time in early childhood. The early childhood period is a crucial phase for the development of the brain, during which fundamental language and executive function skills undergo rapid evolution. This review synthesizes findings from 14 peer-reviewed studies that focused on language development, executive function, and screen time together to provide a comprehensive understanding of their relationship. The findings of current study were categorized under four themes: screen content and adherence to guidelines, parent-child interaction and the family context, passive and active screen time, and attention issues. The findings suggest that interactive and educational screen content may positively influence language development and executive functions when aligned with recommended screen time guidelines. In contrast, excessive passive screen time, such as watching television, has been associated with negative impacts on cognitive and social skills, particularly affecting attention, memory, and emotional regulation. The prevalence of attention problems is found to be higher in individuals who engage in high levels of screen time. This highlights the necessity for balanced consumption of screen media. The review emphasizes the pivotal role of parent-child interaction, where high-quality engagement and verbal scaffolding during screen time can mitigate adverse effects. Furthermore, socioeconomic and cultural factors also play a significant role. Higher socioeconomic status (SES) families are better able to manage screen time and leverage educational content to support development. These findings have the potential to inform the actions of parents, educators, and policymakers. Adherence to recommended screen time guidelines can mitigate the potential negative impact on executive functions and language skills. Furthermore, the importance of limiting passive screen time and ensuring a balance between screen use and real-world interactions and play opportunities is also highlighted.

Visualization analysis of the research frontiers, hotspots and development trends of exercise therapy intervention in children and adolescents with sleep-wake disorders

Objective: Sleep-wake disorders is a common disease in children and adolescents. In recent years, there has been an increasing number of studies on the intervention of exercise therapy in sleep-wake disorders. This study aims to systematically review the development status, research frontiers, research hotspots and development trends of exercise therapy in the through bibliometric methods. Methods: The data comes from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Select all the original data from the establishment of the database to 26 April 2024. Summarize the external characteristics of the literature through Web of Science, Use Excel 2021, Origin 2021, VOS viewers 1.6.20 and Cite Space 6.3.R1 to visually analyze countries/regions, institutions, journals, authors, co-cited references and co-occurrence keywords, use the bibliometric online analysis platform (https://bibliometric.com/) to analyze the changes of keywords and extended keywords over the years. Results: We received a total of 775 publications. The works were sourced from 1429 institutions in 75 countries/regions, published in 113 journals, and written by 4332 authors. The number of publications peaked in 2012, 2018, 2019 and 2021 respectively. In the United States, Harvard University and Children (Basel) have the highest number of publications in this field. The analysis of co-cited references shows that there are three main research frontiers in this field, including 24-hour exercise behavior guidelines for children and adolescents, COVID-19 lockdown and cardiometabolic risk. Screen time, mental health, validity, depression, guidelines, stress, and mediterranean diet are still the current research hotspots in the field, and may become potential research hotspots in the future. Conclusion: The development of research in the field of exercise therapy for children and adolescents with sleep-wake disorders is relatively slow, and there is still a lack of cross-regional scientific research collaborations between countries/regions, institutions and individuals. Our research suggests that it may be a worthwhile research direction to promote the establishment of healthy lifestyle behaviors in the gathering environment of children and adolescents, formulate targeted policies for disease prevention, diagnosis and management, strictly implement preventive measures, improve the level of diagnosis, and dig deep into the precise treatment plan of diseases.

Laboratory Methodology for Screening of Cruciferous Host for Egg Laying Preference of Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella (L.)

Background: Diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella (L.), significantly damages Cole crops worldwide, causing major yield losses and management costs. Efficient control measures, including host plant resistance are imperative. While molecular methods offer insights into resistance mechanisms, conventional screening methods remain advantageous. Here, we present a novel laboratory-based oviposition preference screening method for DBM, significantly shortening screening time in resistance breeding. Methods: We studied DBM’s oviposition preferences among cruciferous hosts and plant tissues. Extract was prepared from leaves and heads of dark green and light green cabbage varieties, as well as cauliflower. Aluminum egg-laying sheets were treated with these extracts and introduced into mating boxes with insects. Egg-laying was monitored over seven days, with the number of eggs recorded daily. Result: DBM adults preferred light green cabbage for egg laying (1238±10.54 eggs), with no significant difference between leaf and head tissues. Dark green cabbage was the second choice (514.5±15.78 eggs), while cauliflower was the least preferred (217±37.2 eggs). Interestingly, DBM exhibited varying preferences between leaf and head tissues, with cauliflower heads being favored over leaves. Additionally, we observed distinct day-wise egg laying trends, providing insights into DBM’s oviposition behavior over time. This study demonstrates the efficiency of lab-based screening in identifying resistant crop varieties, aiding sustainable pest management and crop production and highlights the importance of considering host plant selection and tissue specificity in screening of genotype for resistance breeding programs.

Anhedonia in Youth and the Role of Internet-Related Behavior: A Systematic Review

Introduction: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines depression as a persistent period of sadness or a reduced interest in everyday activities lasting at least two weeks. Anhedonia, a key symptom of depression, is notable for its significance and is regarded as the second most important factor related to non-somatic issues, following closely behind a depressed mood. This study primarily investigates how excessive or problematic use of Internet-connected devices affects the mood and emotions of young people, with a specific emphasis on anhedonia. Additionally, it explores associated socio-behavioral changes and examines the interaction between IA and depression. Methods: This systematic review was conducted following PRISMA international guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library (Clinical Trials section), Scopus, Embase, PsycInfo, and grey literature sources like Google Scholar. A predefined search strategy using Boolean operators was employed, and two researchers independently selected papers, with a third researcher resolving any discrepancies. Manual reviews were conducted to minimize selection bias. Results: Out of 3812 records, 7 studies were included. The findings suggest that social anhedonia correlates with higher levels of IA, particularly among adolescents and young adults. In some studies, loneliness was identified as a mediator between social anhedonia and social functioning, indicating a complex interplay of emotional factors. Other investigations revealed that increased screen time is associated with a heightened risk of developing addiction-related behaviors. Practical Implications and Conclusions: This review highlights the key role of anhedonia in the development of Internet addiction (IA) among young people, particularly through its impact on emotional regulation and social interactions. Addressing psychological and environmental factors is essential for developing targeted strategies to prevent and manage IA and its related mental health challenges.

Lifestyle Factors Associated with Children's and Adolescents' Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet Living in Mediterranean Countries: The DELICIOUS Project.

Background/Objectives. Traditional dietary patterns are being abandoned in Mediterranean countries, especially among younger generations. This study aimed to investigate the potential lifestyle determinants that can increase adherence to the Mediterranean diet in children and adolescents. Methods. This study is a cross-sectional analysis of data from five Mediterranean countries (Italy, Spain, Portugal, Egypt, and Lebanon) within the context of the EU-funded project DELICIOUS (UnDErstanding consumer food choices & promotion of healthy and sustainable Mediterranean Diet and LIfestyle in Children and adolescents through behavIOUral change actionS). This study comprised information on 2011 children and adolescents aged 6-17 years old collected during 2023. The main background characteristics of both children and parents, including age, sex, education, and family situation, were collected. Children's eating (i.e., breakfast, place of eating, etc.) and lifestyle habits (i.e., physical activity level, sleep, and screen time) were also investigated. The level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the KIDMED index. Logistic regression analyses were performed to test for likelihood of higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Results. Major determinants of higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet were younger age, higher physical activity level, adequate sleep duration, and, among dietary habits, having breakfast and eating with family members and at school. Parents' younger age and higher education were also determinants of higher adherence. Multivariate adjusted analyses showed that an overall healthier lifestyle and parents' education were the factors independently associated with higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Conclusions. Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet in children and adolescents living in the Mediterranean area is part of an overall healthy lifestyle possibly depending on parents' cultural background.

Comparative Evaluation of Temporomandibular Disorders and Dental Wear in Video Game Players.

Background/Objectives: The increasing prevalence of video gaming has raised concerns about its potential impact on musculoskeletal health, particularly temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). This study aims to compare TMD symptoms, mandibular function, and dental wear between gamers and non-gamers among university students. Methods: An observational study included 108 students aged 20 to 23 years, divided into gamers (n = 48) and non-gamers (n = 60). Participants completed questionnaires assessing TMD symptoms, gaming habits, and screen time. Clinical examinations measured mandibular movements, palpation-induced pain, and dental wear using the Smith and Knight Tooth Wear Index. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, chi-square tests, Pearson's correlations, and logistic regression. Seven comprehensive tables present the findings with p-values. Results: Gamers reported significantly higher screen time (Mean = 6.5 h/day) compared to non-gamers (Mean = 4.0 h/day; p < 0.001). Maximum unassisted mouth opening was greater in gamers (Mean = 48.31 mm) than in non-gamers (Mean = 46.33 mm; p = 0.04). Gamers exhibited a higher prevalence of pain on palpation of the masseter muscle (45.8% vs. 30.0%; p = 0.05). Dental wear scores were significantly higher in gamers for teeth 2.3 (upper left canine) and 3.3 (lower left canine) (p < 0.05). Positive correlations were found between hours spent gaming and maximum mouth opening (r = 0.25; p = 0.01) and dental wear (r = 0.30; p = 0.002). Logistic regression showed that gaming status significantly predicted the presence of TMD symptoms (Odds Ratio = 2.5; p = 0.03). Conclusions: Gamers exhibit greater mandibular opening, increased dental wear, and a higher prevalence of masticatory muscle pain compared to non-gamers. Prolonged gaming may contribute to altered mandibular function and increased risk of TMD symptoms. Further research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms and develop preventive strategies.

Родительские отзывы об онлайн-школах: недостатки образования

The article presents the analysis of critical judgments in 52 parent reviews of online schools on the IRecommend website. Seven topics were identified using thematic modeling. The authors of the texts consider the management of educational institutions, failures of the online learning platform and the educational process as the main disadvantages of distance learning. Notably, dissatisfaction is particularly pronounced regarding the quality of instruction in mathematical subjects, physics, and chemistry. Subsequent thematic motifs reveal an excessive workload placed on parents due to their involvement in their children's online education, as well as a significant lack of social interaction among students. Conversely, concerns regarding the high cost of online education and the potential health risks associated with prolonged screen time received comparatively less attention. The results obtained in the study may be in demand in monitoring the quality of school education in Russia, as well as for the development of programs in the field of digitalization of education.

Commentary: Relationships between screen time and childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a Mendelian randomization study.

Commentary: Relationships between screen time and childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a Mendelian randomization study.

A study of hypertension and obesity in school-going children age 10-16 years

Background: The rising prevalence of hypertension and obesity among the current generation of children has become a significant public health concern. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need to study the occurrence of these conditions in school-going children aged 10 to 16 years. Accurate estimates of the prevalence of pediatric hypertension and obesity, particularly in the post-COVID era, are essential for designing effective prevention and treatment strategies. The study aims to determine the occurrence of hypertension and obesity in school going children and the risk factors associated with it. Methods: In this cross-sectional study included 402 school going children of Kalaburagi city of age group 10 -16 years. After selecting the school, informed consent from school Principal and Parents of children was obtained. A predesigned, pre tested questionnaire proforma was administered to each child to collect data (intake of fatty food, dietary pattern, duration of screen time, duration of sleep, hours of physical activity). Parameters of height, weight and blood pressure were measured and recorded. Ethical approval was obtained. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 2.5% and pre-hypertension was 2.5%. Prevalence of obesity was 1.7%, over weight was 5.2%. Significant association was found between obesity and mixed type of diet (p value=0.016). It was found that obesity was significantly associated with increased risk of hypertension (p value= 0.000). Significant association was found between hypertension and increased screen time (p value=0.001). It was observed that there is a statistically significant association between female gender and overweight (p=0.027). Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension in obese children was high. Hypertension was positively associated with increased screen time. Prevalence and early detection of childhood obesity and high BP should be strengthened to prevent the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Beyond undernutrition: tracking the surge of obesity among younger population in Bihar, India

Background: The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents in Bihar has become a critical public health concern, coexisting with the state’s long-standing challenge of undernutrition. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence trends, key determinants, and demographic disparities of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents in Bihar to identify actionable insights for public health strategies. Methods: Data from the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS-4, 2015–16, and NFHS-5, 2019–21) were analyzed along with supplementary reports from WHO and UNICEF. The study included children aged 5–9 years and adolescents aged 10–19 years, with overweight and obesity classified using WHO growth standards (BMI-for-age &gt; +1 SD and &gt; +2 SD, respectively). Descriptive statistics were employed to assess prevalence trends, while multivariate logistic regression identified behavioral and environmental risk factors, including screen time, physical activity, and dietary habits. Results: Overweight prevalence doubled among children aged 5–9 years (1.2% to 2.4%) and increased among adolescents (3.2% to 4.5%). Obesity among adolescents also doubled, rising from 1.1% to 2.3%. Urban children exhibited higher rates of overweight (6.2%) compared to rural children (2.8%). Behavioral factors such as physical inactivity (&lt;30 minutes/day; OR=3.2) and prolonged screen time (&gt;4 hours/day; OR=2.5) were significant predictors. Frequent consumption of fast food and sugary beverages further increased the risk. Conclusions: The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, including promoting physical activity, regulating unhealthy food environments, and embedding nutrition education in schools. A multisectoral approach is critical to addressing the dual burden of malnutrition in Bihar’s children and adolescents.

Annual Research Review: Adolescent social media use is not a monolith: toward the study of specific social media components and individual differences.

Social media have drastically changed the context of adolescent development. To date, the majority of research investigating the effects of these changes has measured time spent on social media, yielding inconclusive results-likely because this approach conceptualizes social media as a monolith. Social media experiences are complex and diverse, as are adolescents themselves. Emerging research has identified several specific components of social media that have varied associations with adolescent mental health, as well as individual difference factors that may alter these associations across adolescents. In this annual research review, we synthesize evidence regarding heterogeneity in social media effects related to (a) specific components of social media and (b) adolescents' individual differences regarding social media use and effects. We first focus on the specific social media components-content, features, and functions-that may be especially relevant for adolescent development. These include functions designed to foster relationships and social connections (e.g., social media feeds, 'friends'), hateful content, notifications, risky content, and algorithmically curated content, among others. Next, we provide an overview of for whom these effects may matter most. We review research on individual differences that may explain some heterogeneity in social media effects, including gender/sex, age, marginalized status, neurobiological and social sensitivities, and other preexisting vulnerabilities to mental health concerns. The nascent work in these areas suggests many specific constructs and considerations that could drive future research examining nuanced and precise questions that go beyond 'screen time'. We discuss avenues for researchers to leverage methodological advancements and address how specific social media experiences and individual differences shape developmental outcomes.

Clusters of diet, physical activity, screen-time and sleep among adolescents and associations with 3-year change in indicators of adiposity

Background Clusters of health behaviours could impact changes in adiposity among adolescents over time. This study examines the clustering of screen time, physical activity, dietary behaviours and sleep, and the associations with 3-year changes in indicators of adiposity. Methods Data from the UK’s Millennium Cohort Study were utilised when participants were aged 14 and 17 years respectively. At age 14, demographics, screen time, dietary behaviours and sleep duration were measured via self-report, and physical activity using wrist worn accelerometers. Height, weight, and percent body fat were measured at age 14 and 17 years. Behavioural clusters were determined using k-means clustering analysis, and associations with change in indicators of adiposity between age 14 and 17 years were examined using multivariate regression models. Results Three clusters were identified at age 14, a ‘healthy cluster’, a ‘mixed cluster’, and an ‘unhealthy cluster’ in the analytical sample of 3,065 participants (52.5% girls). The ‘unhealthy’ cluster was the most prevalent cluster among boys (53%), while the ‘healthy cluster’ was most prevalent among girls (55.9%). Adolescents in healthy clusters had a lower BMI z-score and percent body fat at age 14 compared to those in the unhealthy and mixed clusters, and maintained lower scores at age 17. Boys in the mixed and unhealthy clusters at 14 years had a lower change in BMI z-score between 14 and 17 compared to boys in the healthy cluster. Conclusion Adolescents in the healthy cluster had lower BMI z-scores and percent body fat at age 14 years than those in the unhealthy cluster, and they maintained this lower level at age 17. Given the upward trend in BMI during this period, this maintenance could be interpreted as a positive outcome. Further prospective research is needed to better understand these associations as well as research examining the stability of cluster membership over time.

The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Desktop Workers: Exploring the Link between Sleep Quality, Physical Activity, and Sedentary Lifestyles—A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: Digital devices and work from home have blurred boundaries between work and personal life. Reduced physical activity has disrupted sleep patterns, impacting overall well-being. Sleep deprivation is characterized by inadequate or poor-quality sleep, and is linked to various health issues. This study evaluates the prevalence of sleep deprivation among desktop workers and explores its relationship with physical activity and sedentary behavior. Materials and Methods: A sample of 110 desktop workers participated. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) assessed physical activity, whereas the (SATED) questionnaire evaluated sleep quality. Participants completed surveys on the week’s first and last working days to track sedentary behaviors. Results: There was a significant change in IPAQ scores between the first and last working days (P &gt; 0.05). However, SATED scores remained constant throughout the week. Additionally, no correlation (P &gt; 0.05) was found between IPAQ and SATED scores. It was observed that 50% of participants engaged in regular activity; 79.1% exercised for 1–3 h daily. About 74.5% slept 6–8 h, whereas 23.6% reported 4–6 h of sleep. While 52.7% experienced nighttime awakenings, suggesting sleep disturbances. Conclusions: Although there was no significant correlation between screen time and sleep deprivation, some of the participants reported disturbed sleep. Regular physical activity may mitigate screen time effects, but other factors could also influence sleep quality.

Effectiveness of the Korean National Cancer Screening Program in Reducing Colorectal Cancer Mortality.

Whether colorectal cancer (CRC) screening with a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) reduces mortality remains unclear. In South Korea, CRC screening with a FIT for individuals aged ≥ 50 years has been part of the Korean National Cancer Screening Program (KNCSP) since 2004. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the KNCSP in reducing CRC-specific mortality. We conducted a nested case-control study using cohort-based data derived from the KNCSP database. The cohort included 5,944,540 colorectal cancer-free individuals aged ≥ 50 years as of 2004. Individuals who died after CRC diagnosis were defined as cases (n = 29,992) and their sociodemographic characteristics were matched to those of the selected controls. The effects of screening exposure, frequency, and time interval on CRC-specific mortality were analyzed according to age group. Conditional logistic regression analysis was performed. Compared with individuals who had never been screened, those who had ever been screened showed an OR of 0.74 (95% CI, 0.71-0.76) for CRC-specific mortality. CRC-specific mortality decreased as the number of screenings increased. Similar results were observed for those aged 50-79 years; however, the results for those aged 75-79 years were not statistically significant. Moreover, those aged ≥ 80 years had the opposite results. CRC mass screening using FIT is effective for individuals aged 50-74 years; therefore, this study suggests that countries considering introducing national CRC screening implement FIT for those within this age range.

Association of types of on-screen content with mental health problems among Chinese adolescents.

Excessive screen time was associated with mental health problems, yet whether the associations differ by screen content types remain unknown. Here, we conducted a cross-sectional study of adolescents from 156 junior and high school to investigate the association of types of on-screen content with mental health problems in China. The exposure variable was screen exposure, measured by the self-reported questionnaire. Symptoms of depression and anxiety were assessed by Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7), respectively. Suicide-related behavior was adapted from the Centers for Disease Control's Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance. Generalized linear models and network analysis were performed. Of the 15,194 adolescents included in the final analysis, 8,019 were males and mean (SD) age was 14.50 (1.68) years. 34.6% of adolescents had an average screen time of ≥ 4h/day on weekends. The most frequently used screen contents (≥ 4h/d) were electronic games (9.1%), followed by short video (6.6%). Learning online had strong associations with depression (OR = 2.03, 95%CI: 1.29-3.11, P = 0.002) and anxiety (OR = 2.05, 95%CI: 1.24-3.27, P = 0.004) symptoms. The associations between on-screen content and mental health varied. The strongest edges linked to screen content types were edge between "Electronic games" and "Anhedonia" in the network model. "Control worry" was the most central nodes, followed by "Irritable" and "Worry A Lot". Findings suggested that both screen time and different types of screen content were associated with mental health problems among adolescents. Limiting screen exposure and developing effective interventions to improve mental health should be a priority.