Leading pediatric experts have warned that the increasing use of mobile phones to soothe infants is severely damaging their mental abilities and neurological development, causing them to suffer from psychological issues from a very young age.
Speaking at a national conference on pediatric diseases held on Saturday, medical experts emphasized that a newborn’s brain is constantly developing, and distracting a crying child with cartoons or movies on a mobile phone has severe negative effects on their mental maturity.
The two-day event was organized by the Pakistan Paediatric Association (PPA) Sindh branch, featuring distinguished speakers including chief guest Professor M.A. Arif, Professor Iqbal Memon, and Professor Jamal Raza. The conference aims to present recommendations for preventing childhood diseases and reducing infant mortality rates.
Professor Jamal Raza stated that the crucial role of mothers in a child’s mental development is being overlooked. “Nowadays, mothers have handed over their children to mobile phones, which is severely affecting their mental development,” he said, adding that this leads to mental confusion in the young and neglects the mother-child bond essential for healthy growth.
The experts also expressed concerns about nutrition, stating that children are becoming susceptible to various infections due to being fed from bottles instead of being breastfed. They stressed that breastfeeding for up to two years is essential as it naturally boosts a child’s immunity and self-confidence.
In this regard, the speakers revealed that a law against formula milk has been passed and efforts are underway to impose a complete ban on its commercial sale, under which it would only be permitted for use on a doctor’s prescription.
A delegation of experts, including PPA Sindh President Professor Wasim Jamali and Secretary Dr. Saadullah Chachar, announced plans to present a strategy to the Sindh government. It will include recommendations for a robust telecommunication and telemedicine system to improve healthcare access for children up to five years of age in rural areas.
The medical experts reiterated that treatment is a fundamental right of a child and urged parents to immediately consult pediatric specialists in case of illness. They also emphasized the importance of vaccination to protect children from treatable diseases, stating that the poliovirus has been largely controlled.
The conference, which will continue on Sunday, will feature special sessions on gastrointestinal, neurological, pulmonary, and infectious diseases in children to formulate comprehensive health strategies.