Work

Association between electronic screen time and childhood asthma: a cross-sectional study using NHANES 1999–2014 data

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Childhood asthma prevalence has risen globally, paralleling increased electronic screen exposure. This study investigated the association between electronic screen time (TV, computer, and total device use) and asthma risk in U.S. children. METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis of 15,526 children (aged < 20 years) from NHANES (1999-2014) was conducted. Screen time (hours/day) was assessed via questionnaires. Asthma status was self-reported. Multivariable logistic regression, restricted cubic splines, and mediation analyses adjusted for demographics, obesity, income, and environmental factors. RESULTS: Total screen time was positively associated with asthma risk (adjusted OR = 1.48 per hour increase, 95% CI:1.26-1.75, p < 0.001). Computer use ≥ 5 h/day conferred 30% higher asthma odds (OR = 1.30, 95% CI:1.06-1.60). Dose-response analysis showed elevated risk even at ≤ 2 h/day (OR = 1.18, 95% CI:1.04-1.34). Subgroup analyses (age, gender, body Mass Index) confirmed consistency (p < 0.05). No mediation by physical activity was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged electronic screen time independently increased childhood asthma risk, emphasizing its role as a modifiable factor. Clinicians should integrate screen behavior assessments into asthma management. Future research should explore causal pathways, including circadian disruption and indoor pollutant interactions.

Source: BMC Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-24087-z

Authors: Ruixue Xiao, Huiguo Zhang, Yuxiang Ye, Xiaomo Yang, Wei Ju

Institutions: Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Asthma and respiratory diseases

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,290