Smartphone Overuse – A Growing Public Health Issue

Abstract

With smartphones growing to be an integral part of model life, an overuse of smartphone has become epidemic around the world. It negatively affects people’s life with profound implications on mental, physical, and social health and well-being. It is important to bring the public’s awareness to this growing epidemic and to define smartphone overuse as a public health issue. Potential strategies for addressing this issue may be learn from tobacco control, such as health education and health communication, legislation and technical means. In contrast to tobacco control, the aim of public health interventions is not to prohibit smartphone use, but to promote safe, healthful and mindful use. In short, smartphone overuse is an emergent public health issue that demands public health solutions.