World Health Organization

Public Health Implications of Excessive Use of the Internet, Computers, Smartphones and Similar Electronic Devices: Meeting Report

This WHO meeting report summarises a three-day expert meeting held in Tokyo, Japan, on 27-29 August 2014 on public health implications of excessive use of the Internet, computers, smartphones and similar electronic devices, including conditions termed "behavioural addictions."

• Prevalence estimates for internet use disorders vary widely, from 0 to 90 percent depending on country, age group and epidemiological method.
• In Switzerland, problematic internet use reached 6.5% among 15-19 year olds but only 0.9% in the general population aged 15 and over.
• Individuals with excessive internet use show comorbid psychopathology, with ADHD and major depression the most common comorbid conditions, though causal relationships have not been established.