Digital screen time during the COVID-19 pandemic: a public health concern

<ns5:p> Due to the restrictions imposed to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, different population groups have adapted to varying screen time levels, which may have profound implications on their physical and mental wellbeing <ns5:italic>.</ns5:italic> Several empirical studies included in this review reported a sudden upward change in screen time across different population groups. A higher number of people with increased screen time compared to their pre-pandemic state and prolonged duration of total screen time substantiates such assertions. The available evidence suggests that screen time is associated with obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, myopia, depression, sleep disorders, and several non-communicable diseases. This elevated burden of diseases is more prevalent among individuals who have sedentary lifestyles and other unhealthy behaviors…