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Early Smartphone Access Harms Teen Health
2 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Phones before age 12 increase risks for depression, obesity, and poor sleep.
- These conditions are risk factors for heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
- Recommendations include setting phone rules for bedrooms and meals.
New research indicates a concerning link between early smartphone adoption and adolescent health. A study of over 10,000 U.S. adolescents found that those acquiring smartphones before the age of 12 experienced heightened risks for depression, obesity, and insufficient sleep. These conditions are known precursors to severe illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, affecting millions annually.
The findings contradict some earlier studies, emphasizing the need to view smartphones as a critical factor in teen well-being. Researchers suggest that parents should approach the decision to provide a smartphone with caution, considering the potential long-term health consequences for their children. The study reviewed data from 2018-2020, analyzing ownership, age of acquisition, and other socioeconomic factors.
Recommendations for families include setting firm rules for phone usage, particularly in bedrooms and during meals, and adjusting privacy settings. While acknowledging smartphones' social and emergency benefits, experts advocate for mindful use and ensuring phones do not disrupt sleep patterns or replace physical activity. Further studies aim to pinpoint specific app features contributing to negative health outcomes.
