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Digital Harms Declared Public Health Crisis by Doctors
19 Jan
Summary
- GPs see online content linked to self-harm, pornography, and violence.
- Digital harms are now considered a population health issue, not individual.
- Tech firms and policymakers urged to protect children's online wellbeing.
Digital harms, amplified by AI and social media, are now recognized as a significant public health issue, according to the Royal College of GPs. Family doctors are witnessing a rise in children experiencing negative impacts from online exposure, including links to self-harm, pornography, and violence. The RCGP has issued a new position statement calling for joint responsibility from government, technology firms, and regulators to protect children's health and development.
In their daily practice, GPs observe cumulative effects of digital harms on children's mental health, sleep patterns, neurodevelopment, and social relationships. The College emphasizes that these online risks contribute to anxiety, low mood, disordered eating, and safeguarding concerns, framing digital harms as a modern determinant of health. They assert that protecting children's wellbeing must be a shared duty, not solely falling on families or clinicians.
The RCGP's warning aligns with Australia's ban on social media for under-16s and potential UK government consultations on similar measures. Beyond children, adults are also at risk from health misinformation and unreliable AI chatbots that can misdiagnose and pose dangers. The College stresses the urgent need to address these issues to safeguard children and ensure the healthcare system remains preventative and effective.
