Srinagar, Feb. 21 -- Kashmir valley faces a concerning rise in pediatric obesity, mirroring a global trend. One potential contributor is the surge in screen time, raising concerns about its impact on children's health.

Increased screen time promotes a sedentary lifestyle, replacing active play with passive entertainment. This lack of physical activity leads to decreased calorie expenditure, a key factor in weight gain. Furthermore, screen time often coincides with unhealthy snacking. Children engrossed in screens are less mindful of their food choices, opting for readily available, processed snacks heavily advertised during their screen time.

This pattern fuels unhealthy eating habits, contributing to weight gain. Excessive screen time,...