Dubai Health Authority's smart clinic discusses disadvantages of excessive use of technology.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 19, 2015:  Health officials from the Dubai Health Authority  discussed today the disadvantages of excessive use of smart technology.

Information was disseminated through the Authority’s Twitter page, Instagram account and through periscope.

Dr Shamsa Abdulla Bin Hammad, head of DHA’s community health services programme, said: “While the advantages of the use of smart technology are plenty, particularly in the health sector, excessive use of technology can lead to health problems and it is important that people are aware of these problems so that they can limit their screen time.

Watching TV, using smart phones and devices for a long period of time can cause anxiety and in some causes even lead to depression. It is important to limit the exposure to these devices for a maximum duration of thirty minutes per day. This is particularly important for children.”

Dr Ayman Al Boudi, neurologist at Rashid Hospital, said: “Screens, including TVs, computers, tablets, smart phones and video games,  emit a blue light that send a strong signal to the brain that it’s daytime. If the screen is being used at night, it can send your body a signal that makes it difficult to know it’s nighttime and sleep time.  The blue light disrupts the hormones that help induce sleep, making it harder to go to sleep.

“This leads to a feeling of tiredness, unrestful feeling and cause headaches the next morning. If children do not get enough sleep they will not be able to cope up with demands of an academic day at school.”

Bin Hammad also mentioned that people need to follow the correct posture to avoid back, neck and shoulder pains while using technology. “ People who use smart devices and screens for a long period of time, particularly on a daily basis are more prone to neck and back problems. People should read up on ergonomics for smart device users so that they follow the right posture while using these devices.”