(RT) Countries should introduce regulations limiting the use of smartphones and other handheld devices to mitigate their harmful effects on young people, according to Dr. Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Director of the Division of Country Health Policies and Systems. Speaking at the European Health Forum in Austria, Dr. Azzopardi-Muscat likened excessive smartphone use to tobacco addiction, suggesting it’s time to consider “no-go zones” and age restrictions similar to smoking bans.
“We need to think about where it’s appropriate to use digital devices and where certain devices should not be used,” she told Politico magazine. While acknowledging the benefits of communication tools, she warned that problematic use is becoming increasingly common, impacting mental health, education, and workforce productivity.
Dr. Azzopardi-Muscat emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, calling for a systematic review of evidence to inform effective interventions. “It’s clear we can’t delay in taking actions and decisions,” she added.
Concern about the effects of digital device overuse, particularly among teenagers, has grown worldwide. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also highlighted the issue, pledging in July to tackle “excessive screen time and addictive practices,” especially as online abuse has led to tragic cases of self-harm among young people.
Several countries have already taken steps to reduce screen time, including banning smartphones in classrooms in the Netherlands, Hungary, France, Greece, and England.
Source: RT.COM
