Control Smartphones Like Tobacco, says Leading WHO Expert

A WHO expert is calling for smartphone regulation similar to tobacco laws to address the rising mental health impacts of social media on adolescents. Natasha Azzopardi Muscat, WHO’s Director of Country Health Policies and Systems, highlights increasing "addiction-like" behavior, citing a study that found over 10% of European teens struggle to control social media use.

Measures like age limits, controlled pricing, and restricted usage zones, proven effective in tobacco control, could help. Muscat stresses the need for digital literacy to empower youth, preventing negative consequences for education, well-being, and future productivity. Swift action, guided by evidence, is crucial to protect young people’s health. Read more from Politico here.