Abstract:
Background: The proliferation of digital devices — smartphones, tablets,
computers, and gaming consoles — among school-age children and adolescents has transformed
childhood environments, with associated health consequences that are increasingly recognized as
significant public health concerns. Objective: This article systematically reviews evidence on the
negative health impacts of excessive gadget use among school children, including
musculoskeletal, ophthalmological, neurological, psychological, and sleep-related consequences.
Methods: Narrative review of peer-reviewed literature, systematic reviews, and international
health organization reports published between 2010 and 2024. Results: Excessive screen time is
associated with myopia progression, musculoskeletal disorders, sleep disruption, attention
deficits, anxiety, depression, and social developmental delays. The Andijon region of Uzbekistan
and similar Central Asian school-age populations are at elevated risk due to rapidly increasing
device penetration without commensurate health literacy. Conclusion: Evidence-based digital
health guidelines, school health programs, and parental education campaigns are critical to
mitigate the adverse health effects of unregulated gadget use in children.
