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Computer culture affecting children’s health
Nasir Mahmood
Karachi—While there are positive aspects of using computers and
technology, children must also go out and play so that they can be
active. Parents should monitor what children watch and how much time
they spend on the computer so that there is a balance between active
and inactive activity.
Playing too many video games and spending hours in front of the
computer are leading to our children performing poorly at school,
developing sleep disorders and becoming inactive and obese. Dr
Arshalooz Rehman, Assistant Professor and Consultant Paediatrician,
Aga Khan University (AKU) said during an awareness programme held at
the University on the occasion of World Children’s Day, to discuss
important health issues affecting children in Pakistan.
Dengue fever and its affect on children were also discussed at the
event. Dr Rizwan Haider, Senior Instructor and Consultant
Paediatrician, AKU, said, “Since 1994, when the first confirmed
epidemic of dengue fever in Pakistan occurred, there have been
sporadic cases in different parts of the country and since 2005,
regular epidemics have occurred each year in Pakistan, especially
during the winter months.”
Dengue fever is a viral illness that does not spread through coughing,
but is transmitted through the bite of certain female mosquitoes.
While in most cases, dengue causes mild fever, in severe cases, it may
cause death due to bleeding and shock. Dengue-carrying mosquitoes
breed in fresh water, are found indoors, and usually bite during the
daytime.
“Since there is no treatment or vaccine for dengue, it is best to try
to reduce your exposure to mosquitoes. Use mosquito netting around the
house, spray insecticides, and make sure that children use mosquito
repellent lotions and creams. Also, ensure that water in containers is
covered,” said Dr Haider.
Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder among children that causes
anaemia in mild cases, and death in severe cases.
“If both parents carry the defective Thalassemia gene, a child has a
25 percent risk of being born with Thalassemia major, the severe form
of the disease. About 6 per cent of the Pakistani population carries
the milder, Thalassemia minor gene, which usually requires no
treatment. |
