Smartphone addiction, stress, and sleep deprivation: emerging as new risk factors for acute coronary syndrome in young people

Abstract Background: The increase in prolonged screen time has led to a more sedentary lifestyle, poor eating habits, and increased stress, all of which are factors that negatively impact heart health and contribute to the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). This study aims to explore the relationship between prolonged screen time and CAD, specifically in young patients with significant screen time (4+ h/day), stress, and sleep deprivation, alongside other lifestyle factors such as oral tobacco use and/or smoking. Materials and Methods: This pilot study included 30 consecutive young patients with acute coronary syndrome who were admitted to the intensive coronary care unit owing to chest pain and diagnosed with angiographically confirmed CAD. Participants provided real-time data on their screen time, including smartphone and laptop usage, as well as their stress levels and sleep patterns. Additionally, traditional risk factors such as oral tobacco use, smoking, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, family history of CAD, and dyslipidemia were evaluated. All patients underwent an electrocardiogram, echocardiography, and angiography. They were categorized into two groups: Group A (aged ≤45 years) and Group B (aged 46 years and above). Results: Among patients aged 45 and below, 75% reported prolonged screen time (4+ hours/day), increased stress, and sleep deprivation. In contrast, patients aged 46 and older had higher incidences of traditional risk factors like hypertension and diabetes, with 50% reporting high screen time. Notably, younger patients with prolonged screen time exhibited reduced ejection fractions. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant association between prolonged screen time and early onset of CAD, largely influenced by modifiable risk factors such as stress, smoking, and sedentary behavior. In older patients, traditional risk factors played a more dominant role, although screen time also contributed to the progression of CAD. Reducing screen time and encouraging lifestyle changes are crucial for preventing CAD across all age groups.