Pattern of Smart Phone Usage among Adult Population of Himachal Pradesh: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional
Background: The smart phone is regarded as a crucial communication tool and is now an essential component of modern human society. Numerous health issues have been linked to excessive usage of smartphones. This study was done to evaluate the pattern of Smart Phone usage among adult population of Himachal Pradesh. Methods:A descriptive cross sectional survey was conducted amongst the 400 participants in the age group of 18 to 60 years, using Google forms. The questionnaire was circulated among residents of Himachal Pradesh for responses. Results: Among the total 400 participants, 391 (97.75%) were using personal smart phone. 180 (45%) participants were using smart phone for 3-4 hours per day. 394 (98.5%) were using social networking sites, 123 (30.75%) were using gaming apps, 301 (75.25%) were using music & video apps, 205 (51.25%) were using app related to the academic work and 164 (41%) were using news app. 205 (51.25%) participants were suffering from eye strain/watering/itching for eyes, 108(27.0%) were having difficulty in sleep, 114 (28.5%) were having headache, 87 (21.75%) were having cervical problem, 54 (13.5%) were having mental health problems and 48 (12%) were having musculoskeletal problem due to usage of smart phone. 33 (8.25%) suffered from any injury or met with an accidents due to use of smart phone, 108 (27%) were using smart phone while driving, 167 (41.75%) were using smart phone while in conference and workshop, 296 (74%) were using smart phone while they were sitting in group of family members, 315 (78.75%) were using smart phone before going to bed in night, 176 (44%) were using smart phone if ever wake up in night, 249 (62.25%) were using smart phone soon after wake up in morning, 166 (41.5%) were using smart phone in toilet and 237 (59.25%) were felt that they were addicted to smart phone. Conclusion: While smartphones play a useful part in our everyday lives, excessive use of them can have a negative impact on our health, sleep, daily performance, and even lead to dependence and addiction.