Electronic Gadget Use and its Impact on Academic Performance, Eating Habits and Quality Sleep among School Children in Thimphu, Bhutan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Technological gadgets are becoming popular in the nooks of the world and it has become a necessity for many people including children. Most children frequently use gadgets in settings where learning occurs and it is also used for many other purposes. Objective: This study objective was to assess the relationship between gadget use and students’ academic performance, dietary habits, and also sleeping patterns. Methods: A total of 446 participants aged 13-18 years old from classes 9 to 12 studying in Middle and Higher Secondary Schools in Thimphu, Bhutan were sampled. For the selection of school study settings, convenient sampling was used. Systematic random sampling was used to select potential participants. A list of possible subjects was gathered from the study site and the sample from six different schools was divided equally. Results: Students who participated in the study were mostly aged below 16 years of age (54.7%) and 55.8% of them were male respondents. The study revealed that the maximum number of participants (38%) used cell phones while only 5% of them used tablets/iPad. 78% of participants reported using electronic devices both on weekends and weekdays with 57.9% of participants using mobile phones for more than 2 hours a day compared to other gadgets. The result of the study showed that poor academic performance, poor quality sleep and unhealthy eating habits were highly associated with mobile phones with p<0.05. Age was one of the non-modifiable risk factors and female participants were at higher risk of developing poor eating habits. Conclusion: This study showed that poor academic performance, poor quality sleep and unhealthy eating habits were highly associated with mobile phone use among Middle and Higher Secondary School students in Thimphu. Reducing total screen time and improving sleep quality is important for improving the physical and mental health of future healthcare professionals. Therefore, there is an imminent need for raising awareness among students and their parents along with undertaking effective intervention strategies.