The heart of the matter: How your phone affects your cardiovascular health
By Dr. Colleen Pietras, M.D., Chief Medical Officer
As a cardiovascular surgeon, I often get asked about the effects of modern technology on heart health. Mobile phones are an integral part of our lives, but it’s important to understand their potential impact on cardiovascular well-being.
Although this topic has been brought up for over a decade, the implications of cell phone use on cardiovascular health have been somewhat contradictory. A new study published by the Canadian Journal of Cardiology last week draws a closer connection between modern technology and heart health.
While the research continues to evolve, here are some points to consider…
Stress and Heart Health: Constant notifications and the pressure to stay connected can elevate stress levels. Chronic stress is a known risk factor for heart disease, so finding ways to manage stress effectively is crucial.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Long periods of phone use often lead to a sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy heart, so make sure to balance screen time with movement.
Smoking Cessation: Smoking is known to increase oxidative stress, which is related to endothelial dysfunction and the development of cardiovascular disease. Integrating lifestyle changes, counseling, and emotional support will offer a personalized approach and the best chance at effective smoking cessation.
Sleep Disruption: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with sleep patterns. Quality sleep is vital for cardiovascular health, so try to limit phone use before bedtime.
Mental Well-Being: Maintaining a healthy balance between virtual interactions and real-world relationships is important for mental and emotional health, which in turn supports overall heart health.
To safeguard your heart, consider setting boundaries for phone use, integrating regular physical activity into your routine, and prioritizing stress management and good sleep hygiene. Your heart will thank you! 🫀
Dr. Colleen Pietras, M.D., is Global Chief Medical Officer at Qorvis. A cardiothoracic surgeon with experience at institutions including Yale and the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Pietras supports clients in the healthcare, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and medical device sectors with strategic communications, public relations, reputation management, and premium editorial and news content.