The Digital Media Environment and Cardiovascular Risk in Children

Abstract

Children today are exposed to multiple forms of digital media including traditional (eg, televisions, computers) and newer mobile devices (eg, smartphones, tablets, etc). As the digital media environment evolves, it is important that health care providers and policymakers adapt to develop, implement, and evaluate strategies to ameliorate its effects on health. In this article we provide an overview of the literature on the relationship between the digital media environment and cardiovascular risk factors in childhood. Existing evidence on the relationship between digital media environment and cardiovascular risk in infants, children, and youth are reported. Potential mechanisms underpinning the relationship between the digital media environment and cardiovascular disease risk in children such as the displacement of movement behaviours, food and beverage marketing to children, and eating while viewing were explored. National and international guidelines aimed at addressing the digital media environment are highlighted, and suggestions for future research and guideline development are provided. Action-oriented professional recommendations for health care providers, families, and children are urgently needed. As the prevalence of screen use in childhood continues to exceed those of past generations, concern about the effects and strategies to reduce harm including cardiovascular outcomes must remain a top public health priority.