Children in Dhaka spend an average of nearly five hours a day using digital screens such as mobile phones, televisions, and computers, according to a study by the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B). The research found that more than one-third of children suffer from eye problems and 80 percent frequently experience headaches. Conducted between 2022 and 2024 among 420 children aged six to fourteen from six schools, the study was published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) Human Factors.

The findings show that 83 percent of children exceed the internationally recommended two-hour daily screen limit, averaging 4.6 hours per day. Those using screens for more than two hours sleep only 7.3 hours on average, below the healthy range of 8–10 hours. About 14 percent are overweight or obese, with higher rates among heavy screen users. Researchers warned that excessive screen time disrupts sleep, reduces physical activity, and increases risks of obesity, eye strain, and mental health issues.

ICDDR,B experts urged parents to set limits, encourage outdoor play, and promote balanced digital habits at home and school to protect children’s physical and mental well-being.