Research Report: Impact of Mobile Phone Use Hours on Blood Pressure

 

Dr. Hafiz Kosar

Abstract

The advent of mobile technology has revolutionized communication, but its health implications, particularly concerning blood pressure, are not well-understood. This study investigates the relationship between the duration of mobile phone use and its impact on blood pressure. Utilizing a sample of 100 participants, research examined the correlation between mobile phone use hours and blood pressure readings, revealing a significant association between prolonged mobile phone usage and elevated blood pressure levels.

Introduction

Mobile phones have become ubiquitous, with individuals spending significant portions of their day engaged in various activities on these devices. While mobile phones provide numerous benefits, concerns have emerged regarding their potential health effects. One area of concern is the impact of prolonged mobile phone use on blood pressure, a critical indicator of cardiovascular health.

Objective

This study aims to determine the relationship between the duration of mobile phone use and blood pressure levels in adult users.

 Methodology

Participants

A total of 100 participants (50 males and 50 females) aged 18-60 years were recruited for this study. Participants were selected through random sampling from a metropolitan area.

Data Collection

Participants were required to log their daily mobile phone use hours over a period of one month. Blood pressure readings were taken at the beginning and end of the study using a standardized digital blood pressure monitor.

Statistical Analysis

The collected data were analyzed using Pearson correlation to determine the relationship between mobile phone use duration and changes in blood pressure. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

 Results

 Participant Demographics

o   Average Age: 34.5 years

o   Gender Distribution: 50% male, 50% female

 Mobile Phone Use

o   Average Daily Use: 4.5 hours

o   Range: 1 to 12 hours

 Blood Pressure Readings

o   Baseline Average Systolic BP: 122 mmHg

o   Baseline Average Diastolic BP: 78 mmHg

o   End-of-Study Average Systolic BP: 128 mmHg

o   End-of-Study Average Diastolic BP: 82 mmHg

 Correlation Analysis

A positive correlation was found between mobile phone use duration and both systolic (r = 0.45, p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.39, p < 0.001). Participants with higher daily mobile phone use hours exhibited more significant increases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure over the study period.

  Interpretation of Findings

The findings suggest a significant association between prolonged mobile phone use and elevated blood pressure. This correlation may be attributed to several factors, including:

Sedentary Behavior: Extended periods of mobile phone use are often associated with reduced physical activity, contributing to increased blood pressure.

Stress and Anxiety: Continuous engagement with mobile phones, particularly through social media and work-related communications, can elevate stress levels, thereby impacting blood pressure.

Screen Time and Sleep Disruption: Excessive screen time can disrupt sleep patterns, which is a known risk factor for hypertension.

 Implications for Public Health

Given the widespread use of mobile phones, these findings underscore the need for public health initiatives to educate the population on the potential health risks associated with prolonged mobile phone use. Recommendations for limiting screen time and promoting regular physical activity should be integrated into health guidelines.

 Limitations

The study's limitations include its reliance on self-reported data for mobile phone use, which may be subject to reporting bias. Additionally, the study's duration was relatively short, and long-term impacts of mobile phone use on blood pressure were not assessed.

 Conclusion

This study demonstrates a significant association between prolonged mobile phone use and elevated blood pressure. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring and managing mobile phone use to mitigate potential adverse health effects. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term implications and underlying mechanisms driving this relationship.

References

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Zhang, A., Xiong, S., Peng, Y., Zeng, Y., Zeng, C., Yang, Y., & Zhang, B. (2022). Perceived stress and mobile phone addiction among college students: The roles of self-control and security. Frontiers in psychiatry, 13, 1005062.

Bani‐Issa, W., Radwan, H., Saqan, R., Hijazi, H., Fakhry, R., Alameddine, M., ... & Awad, M. (2023). Association between quality of sleep and screen time during the COVID‐19 outbreak among adolescents in the United Arab Emirates. Journal of sleep research, 32(1), e13666.