This article discusses a new study that shows cell phone use and computer gaming can positively affect the brain.
Recently, I have been writing about the dangers of electromagnetic fields (EMF) and their potential health risks.
This time, I want to focus on the positive effects of cell phone use. This article comes from a study titled “Long-Term Impact of Using Mobile Phones and Playing Computer Games on the Brain Structure and the Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases.”
It was peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Internet Medical Internet Research in January 2025.
Introduction
Screen time is often blamed for health issues. Yet, a new study suggests an unexpected benefit might be linked to using your mobile phone. It may protect your brain as you age.
A large-scale study from the UK Biobank reveals intriguing findings. Long-term mobile phone use could be linked to a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Parkinson’s. It is also connected with changes in brain structure.
The Cell Phone Study at a Glance
Researchers analyzed data from over 270,000 adults (average age 56) tracked for nearly 14 years. Participants reported their mobile phone and computer gaming habits, and outcomes were monitored through medical records. A subset of 35,000 participants also underwent brain scans.
Key Findings
Lower Risk of Brain Diseases:
People who used mobile phones for 2+ years had a 15–25% lower risk of all-cause dementia. This includes conditions like Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia when compared to rare users.
Those over 60 saw reduced risks of Parkinson’s and related disorders with 5+ years of phone use.
Brain Structure Benefits:
MRI scans revealed that long-term users had thicker cortexes in certain brain regions. This is a sign of a healthier brain structure because thinning cortexes are often linked to aging and cognitive decline.
People who had used mobile phones for over 8 years had thicker brain tissue in key areas. These include the parahippocampal gyrus, which is important for memory and learning.
This is significant because shrinkage in this brain area is an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
No Extra Benefit from Heavy Daily Use
Surprisingly, using phones for more hours per week didn’t boost protection. Benefits were tied to years of use, not daily screen time.
Why Cell Phones Could Help Prevent Memory Loss?
The study doesn’t prove causation. The researchers speculate that mobile phone use stimulates the brain through problem-solving, memory use, or social interaction.
Think of it as a mental workout: just as physical exercise strengthens muscles, thoughtful interaction fortifies brain resilience.
What About Computer Gaming?
The study also explored computer gaming but found mixed results.
- Frequent gaming was linked with larger brain volumes, suggesting some cognitive benefits.
- Occasional gaming was linked to lower brain volumes, maybe due to sedentary habits that negatively impact brain health.
These findings suggest that digital device use affects brain health. However, the effects depend on how often and in what way the devices are used.
The spotlight remains on mobile phones, due to their unique mental and social engagement mix.
Caveats to Consider
- Correlation is not Causation: Healthier individuals might use phones more. Other lifestyle factors like education and social ties could also play a role.
- Self-Reporting Limits: Phone usage data was self-reported, which can be unreliable.
- Evolving Tech: The study began before smartphones dominated, so modern usage patterns (e.g., social media, apps) may differ.
The Bottom Line
While this study offers a fresh perspective, it’s not a free pass for endless scrolling. Instead, it hints that long-term, moderate mobile phone use might contribute to brain health as we age.
As one researcher noted, “This opens doors for future studies to explore how our digital lives shape brain health.”
So, the next time you pick up your phone, remember this. It might be doing more than just keeping you connected. It could be giving your brain a subtle boost. But as with all things, balance is key.
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- Protect Your Brain: Easy Ways To Reduce EMF Exposure!
Reference:
Xiao Y, Zhang S, Ma Y, Wang S, Li C, Liang Y, Shang H. Long-Term Impact of Using Mobile Phones and Playing Computer Games on the Brain Structure and the Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Large Population-Based Study. J Med Internet Res. 2025 Jan 28;27:e59663. doi: 10.2196/59663. PMID: 39874583; PMCID: PMC11815302.
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