The Effect of Screen Time on Obesity Among School-Aged Children in Pakistan

Introduction: Obesity among school-aged children is a burgeoning public health issue globally, with Pakistan witnessing a significant rise in its prevalence. Increased screen time, encompassing activities such as watching television, playing video games, and using computers or mobile devices, has been identified as a pivotal contributor to childhood obesity. This study aims to investigate the relationship between screen time and obesity among school-aged children in Pakistan, considering various socio-demographic and behavioral factors. Objective: To examine the association between the duration of screen time and the prevalence of obesity in a cohort of 320 school-aged children in Pakistan. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Govt Elementary School (GES) Bahari Colony Green Town Lahore, Lahore during September 2024 to march 2025. Data were collected from 320 children aged 6-12 years through questionnaires assessing screen time and measuring Body Mass Index (BMI). Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and Pearson correlation coefficients, were performed to determine the relationship between screen time and obesity rates, controlling for potential confounding variables such as physical activity levels, dietary habits, and socioeconomic status. Results: The analysis indicated a positive correlation between increased screen time and higher BMI scores. Children engaging in more than 2 hours of screen time daily were significantly more likely to be classified as obese compared to those with less screen time. Additionally, sedentary behavior associated with screen use, combined with poor dietary habits and low physical activity levels, contributed to higher obesity prevalence. Conclusion: It is concluded that excessive screen time is associated with an increased risk of obesity among school-aged children in Pakistan. Reducing screen time, alongside promoting physical activity and healthy dietary practices, may be effective strategies in combating childhood obesity.