A medical expert has warned Nigerians against the growing habit of spending long hours on mobile phones, computers and other digital devices, especially in dark environments, saying the practice poses serious dangers to eye health and general wellbeing.
The warning was issued by a medical practitioner with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Dr. Oluwamuyiwa Oloruntobi, during a medical outreach programme held at the Kwara State Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) as part of activities marking the 2025 NUJ Press Week.
Dr. Oloruntobi explained that using digital devices in darkness forces the eyes to function under unhealthy conditions due to the intense light emitted from screens.
“When you use your phone or computer in a dark environment, the eyes are subjected to abnormal stress because of the contrast between the screen light and the surroundings,” he said.
According to him, prolonged exposure to screens not only strains the retina but also makes the brain work excessively, leading to health challenges that may worsen over time.
He noted that constant screen use could result in frequent headaches, eye fatigue and blurred vision, warning that “continuous exposure may gradually weaken the eye lens if not properly managed.”
The medical expert also drew attention to the posture-related problems associated with prolonged screen use, stating that “poor posture from long hours on phones and laptops can lead to persistent neck and shoulder pain.”
Dr. Oloruntobi further cautioned that excessive screen exposure may cause dry eyes, reduced concentration and sleep disorders, stressing that blue light from digital devices interferes with the body’s natural sleep cycle.
“Many people complain of poor sleep without realising that excessive screen time, especially at night, is a major factor,” he added.
He advised Nigerians to deliberately reduce screen time, particularly at night, adjust screen brightness to suit their environment and take regular breaks when using digital devices. He also recommended the use of anti-glare or protective glasses to minimise the harmful effects of screen light.
The medical outreach, organised as part of the NUJ Kwara 2025 Press Week, offered free medical consultations and health education to journalists and members of the public, highlighting the need for preventive healthcare and healthier lifestyle choices.
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