Doctors say social media's impact on children as harmful as smoking

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – Social media is now considered a serious threat to children and adolescent health, even compared to the dangers of smoking. This was stated by senior UK doctors urging the government to take decisive action to address excessive screen time among young people.

The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, representing 23 royal medical colleges and medical faculties in England and Ireland, detailed the impact of social media on children in a formal submission to the UK government’s consultation on child protection online. “The impact of social media is as harmful as smoking. This has driven us to unite and highlight the effects of unlimited exposure to digital technology on children and adolescent health,” the organisation stated, according to Reuters on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

A survey of 132 doctors found over half reported finding at least one health issue linked to technology and digital device use each week. More than a third said they observed such negative effects multiple times a week.

The impacts identified include not only mental health issues but also physical injuries. Some cases involve children mimicking extreme pornography seen online, while doctors also noted psychological trauma from exposure to violent content online.

The Mayo Clinic has stated that social media use can negatively affect some teenagers. It can disrupt activities such as studying, sports, and family time, as well as impact sleep quality.

Additionally, social media risks exposing teens to biased or false information, spreading rumours, and encouraging excessive sharing of personal details. Some teenagers may also develop unrealistic views of others’ lives and body shapes.