A recent study from Hanyang University Medical Center reveals that teens spending over four hours daily on smartphones may face serious health issues. Researchers link increased phone use to problems like stress, thoughts of suicide, substance use, and a higher risk of obesity.

Professor Jong Ho Cha emphasizes that smartphones have become crucial for young people, especially with school closures and COVID-19-related social distancing. The study shows a growing connection between more smartphone use and health problems in teens.

Interestingly, the research suggests that using the internet moderately (one to two hours daily) could be better for teens' physical and mental health than not using smartphones at all. The study also suggests a two-way relationship, meaning teens struggling with emotions might use smartphones more.

Prof. Cha says, "Using smartphones too much is linked to bad behavior, especially beyond four hours daily." The study proposes that teens with emotional struggles might use smartphones excessively.

In response to these findings, there's a call for schools and healthcare providers to work together on simple campaigns to talk about responsible smartphone use. As smartphones become a big part of teens' lives, finding a balance between tech and well-being is important.

Parents, teachers, and policymakers need to pay attention to the risks of too much smartphone use among teens. As smartphones become more important for teens, finding the right balance between tech and well-being becomes even more important.