OBESITY AND VIDEO GAME ADDICTIONS

The Department of Health — Abu Dhabi (DoH) has ascribed obesity problems in children with video game addictions.

Dr Mohamed Embabi, paediatric specialist at Bareen International Hospital — MBZ City in Abu Dhabi, told Khaleej Times that several medical studies in the UK reveal there is a link between video games with response learning — response learning is associated with a decrease in the gray matter of the hippocampus.

“This is part of the brain linked to episodic memory and orientation. A low amount of gray matter in this brain area is related to depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder.”

Dr Embabi said there is a link between video games and childhood obesity. “Technology could be the reason for obesity, as it distracts you from doing outdoor activities and encourages laziness.”

He said there are many ways to use technology to increase daily activities. For instance, there are many apps related to health and fitness, which monitors daily activities.

He stressed that parents should set specific time for technology and create activities, which involve sports or exercise. “For schools and government, there should be more emphasis on creating programmes to encourage students to take part of, which will create an active life for them.”