PREVALENCE OF SCREEN EXPOSURE AND MUSCULOSKELETAL RELATED SYMPTOMS AMONG TEENAGERS.

http://doi.org/10.46536/jpumhs/2023/13.01.402

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: This article discusses the association between high screen time and

musculoskeletal symptoms in adolescents. The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among

adolescents is high, and the symptoms can cause physical discomfort and functional limitations,

affecting the overall quality of life. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of

screen exposure and musculoskeletal related symptoms among teenagers Methods: The cross

sectional survey based study was conducted in Hyderabad, Pakistan, with a sample of 200

participants aged between 13 to 19 years, engaged in screen-based activities for at least 2 hours

per day. Duration of study was 4month from Sept 2023 to January 2023. The musculoskeletal

symptoms were assessed using a standardized questionnaire, the Nordic Musculoskeletal

Questionnaire (NMQ). Data was analyzed through SPSS ver 23. Results: The study finds that

the majority of participants spend between 6 to 9 hours per day engaged in screen-based

activities. Specifically, 30.5% of participants spend 8 hours per day on electronic devices, while

28% spend 9 hours per day. The highest screen exposure reported is 9 hours per day, with 56

participants (28%) exceeding this threshold. The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms is

found to be high in the neck (42%), followed by the lower back (29%), and wrist (14.5%).

Conclusion: The study concludes that high screen time is associated with musculoskeletal

symptoms in adolescents, highlighting the importance of reducing screen time and promoting

physical activity.