The rapid rise of social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and Threads has led to an increase in the consumption of short-form video content, commonly known as “reels.” These quick, captivating videos, typically ranging up to 90 seconds, are designed to grab attention with engaging elements such as music, filters, and interactive features.
Their growing popularity has made them a key driver of user engagement, particularly among young and middle-aged individuals.
However, as more people, especially younger audiences, spend hours scrolling through these videos, concerns about their impact on health are surfacing.
A recent study conducted by researchers from The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University in China has highlighted a concerning connection between excessive bedtime viewing of short videos and an increase in high blood pressure (hypertension).
The Study
The research, which analyzed data from 4,318 participants who reported their screen time and underwent medical checkups between January and September 2023, found that individuals who spent more time watching short videos before sleep were more likely to develop hypertension.
The study stressed the importance of controlling screen time, especially at night, to reduce the risks of developing high blood pressure.
In Kenya, the rise of social media usage has mirrored global trends. By December 2024, there were 17 million Facebook users in the country, accounting for 28.5% of the population, with young adults (ages 18-24) making up the largest demographic.
Similarly, Instagram had about 3.2 million users, with nearly half of them in the same age group. This suggests that a significant portion of the Kenyan population may be at risk due to excessive screen time.
Health Implications
The study, published in BMC Public Health, specifically linked the habit of watching short videos late at night to the rise of essential hypertension in young and middle-aged people.
Hypertension remains a significant health issue in Kenya, with estimates of its prevalence ranging from 12.6% to 36.9%, particularly in urban areas.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, affecting over 1.3 billion adults worldwide. WHO emphasizes that regular health screenings, reducing salt intake, and increasing physical activity are essential steps in managing and preventing high blood pressure.
Expert Recommendations
Given the findings, health experts advise individuals to monitor their screen time, especially before bed, to mitigate health risks. Adopting a balanced lifestyle that includes regular physical exercise, a low-sodium diet, and routine health checkups can help in managing and preventing hypertension.
As social media continues to evolve and play a bigger role in daily life, it is crucial to balance digital engagement with habits that prioritize long-term health and well-being.
