A new study is raising concerns about how screen time could impact kids’ long-term health.

Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association shows children and teenagers who spend more time on screens, especially while getting less sleep, may face a higher risk of future heart and metabolic issues, including high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. The study looked at more than one-thousand young people in Denmark and found teenagers with the most screen time were especially at risk.

Doctor Natasha Noel with the OSF HealthCare Cardiovascular Institute says the findings highlight how everyday habits can impact long-term health.

Doctors say one key factor is sleep. Experts warn too much screen time, especially late at night, can disrupt sleep patterns, which play a critical role in regulating hormones, metabolism, and blood pressure.

While the study focused on children in Denmark, doctors say more research with a broader population would be helpful. Still, the connection between screen time, sleep, and health risks is hard to ignore.

The findings also highlight the importance of physical activity.

Doctors say time spent in front of screens could mean less movement which is something that’s essential for heart health.

Health experts say the goal isn’t to eliminate screen time altogether, but to create balance.
That includes setting limits, keeping screens out of bedrooms at night, and maintaining consistent sleep schedules.

Doctors say the habits kids build now, including how they sleep, move, and use technology, can have lasting effects on their heart health well into adulthood.