Many studies on the effect of computer games on people talk about the damage that excessive enjoyment causes to the soul. Authors of other works focus on the fact that the damage is minimal for a reasonable amount of time spent on such entertainment. Australian scientists decided to focus on the consequences of long-term gaming on physical health. In their new work, they put a certain time limit on the games, exceeding this limit causes problems.

The popularity of computer and online games is increasing all over the world. Today, among his fans there are not only young people, but also people of different ages and interests. Estimates of the number of players vary: Some estimates put the global audience at over three billion by 2022.

Although computer games delight many people, moderation is important in this type of entertainment, as in any other entertainment. Gaming, hypodynamia and static are often associated with prolonged stay in an incorrect posture. The World Health Organization had previously recognized the negative impact of video games and included video game addiction in its list of diseases and disorders.

Australian researchers examined the results of a 2022 survey of nearly 1,000 video game enthusiasts as part of the broader International Gaming Survey. Its participants were aged 18 to 94 and living in Canada, Australia, the United States and Great Britain.

Based on the answers, the scientists tracked the link between participants’ continuous gaming time over the past year and health problems. Overall, the analysis found that as the frequency of gaming increased, more people experienced negative consequences. Regardless of age and gender, those who played for three consecutive hours and more than once were more likely to experience visual fatigue and pain in the wrists, hands, back and neck.

Interestingly, the health effects of gaming sessions lasting three hours or more were similar to the results reported by those who played for six hours or more. It has been tested by both amateur players and those who decided to become professional players.

Older participants were more likely to report pain in their hands and wrists as a result of long gaming sessions. Participants at high risk for gaming disorder, also assessed in the survey, also reported additional negative symptoms such as headaches and drowsiness.

Authors of the study published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior , called for raising awareness about the harms of long-term gaming sessions and taking measures to encourage healthier gaming scenarios. To reduce negative consequences, experts recommend that players take breaks at regular intervals, use ergonomic chairs and other special equipment.

Meanwhile, scientists recently warned of another health hazard for gamers. A meta-analysis of past research has shown that video game sound levels are generally near or above acceptable levels. This can lead to irreversible consequences such as hearing loss or tinnitus (constant noise or ringing in the ears).