Lancet meta-review links problematic digital media use to youth health harms

A three-paper Lancet series and meta-review on "digital determinants of health," drawing on data from 9 million people under 25 across 10 countries, found consistent links between problematic (addiction-like) digital media use and obesity, nearsightedness, back pain, anxiety, depression, sleep problems and self-harm. More than three-quarters of reported exposure-outcome associations were adverse. The authors urge governments to require tech companies to share data with vetted public-interest researchers and to regulate digital media through a public health approach.

• Meta-review covered data from 9 million people under 25 in 10 countries
• Over 75% of reported exposure-outcome associations were adverse
• In adolescents, problematic use was tied to self-injury and suicidal ideation
• Authors call for mandatory data sharing by tech companies