Study on digital screen exposure among children under 24 months in Batticaloa MOH area

Abstract

In this modern era, digital screen usage has grown dramatically, and digital screens have become a significant concern as the number of people using them is increasing. Unfortunately, due to modern digitalization of society, there has been a significant increase in the exposure of very young children to digital screens. While younger and older populations use digital media by choice, children under 24 months are primarily exposed to it through their primary caregivers. Resulting in exposing children under 24 months by their primary caregiver, leads to more health-related effects on them. Despite guidelines from organization like the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending no screen time for this age group, many primary caregivers remain unaware or misinformed. This study explores the prevalence, practices, perceptions, and source of knowledge regarding digital screen exposure among primary care givers in Batticaloa MOH area. The study aimed to explore the prevalence, circumstances of offering digital screens, sources of information, and effective educational methods regarding digital screen exposure among children under 24 months in Batticaloa MOH area. A descriptive cross-sectional study has been conducted among 361 primary care giver-child pairs attending immunization clinics in Batticaloa. Data has been collected via validated questionnaire, covering socio demographical data, screen usage prevalence, care giver practices, perception, and sources of education. Proportionate stratified random sampling has ensured representation across public health midwifery (PHM) areas. The study found that 74.2% of children under 2 in the Batticaloa MOH area had screen exposure, with 21.1% exposed before 12 months. Smartphones and TVs were the most used devices. The majority of children watched screens for less than 30 minutes, but a few for over 2 hours daily. One-third of caregivers did not watch with their child. Screens were mostly used to help with feeding, for education, or to calm tantrums. Many caregivers found tasks easier when screens were used. Some believed screens were educational, but most were concerned about health, sleep, and attention problems. Only a few knew the WHO screen time guidelines. Caregivers got information mainly from health workers and social media, but many never asked professionals themselves. Almost half preferred MOH clinic education to learn about healthy screen habits of their children. Many children under 2 in Batticaloa are exposed to screens early, often without parents watching with them. Caregivers often use screens for feeding or calming children, thinking it's helpful. Many caregivers were aware of the risks like sleep and attention problems, and preferred childhood interactive play over digital screens in early childhood learning. However, the majority were not aware about WHO guidelines on children’s digital exposure. To improve this, public awareness through clinics and social media is needed. Health workers should talk about screen use during checkups. National guidelines should be made, and more research is needed to study long-term effects.