Titled “21 Years on Screens: How a Lifetime of Screens is Redefining Human Experience and Health,” the report draws from sources including Common Sense Media, Nielsen, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Findings show a significant generational increase in screen exposure: People born in 1980 are expected to spend around eight years on screens, while those born in 1960 spent about four years.
The report raises public health concerns linked to extensive screen time, highlighting risks such as a 63% increased chance of metabolic syndrome, widespread digital eye strain affecting 50% to 90% of users, and a rise in musculoskeletal pain related to device use. It also cites research from the National Institutes of Health showing that children with more than seven hours of daily screen time exhibit premature thinning in brain regions responsible for critical functions. Additionally, problematic social media use correlates with increased depression, anxiety, and loneliness.
Unlike earlier generations’ passive screen use, today’s screen time is active, personal, and continuous, peaking notably during early adolescence (up to nine hours daily) and again in later adulthood.
The report urges balanced management of technology use, recommending limits on screen time for young children, ergonomic practices like the “20-20-20” rule to reduce eye strain, use of low-blue-light devices, creation of tech-free zones, and prioritizing meaningful, creative screen engagement over passive consumption.
Eyesafe concludes that while the projected “21 lost years” of screen time pose challenges, informed strategies can help safeguard health and ensure technology benefits users without compromising well-being.