Research: Could physical activity alleviate smartphone addiction in university students?

Posted: 02/05/2025

Since the iPhone’s launch in 2007, smartphones have shifted from being a luxury to a daily necessity. However, growing overdependence on technology—particularly smartphones—may carry health risks. A recent systematic review spanning 12 countries examined the relationship between smartphone addiction and physical activity among university students. The findings revealed a clear inverse relationship: students with higher levels of smartphone use were significantly less physically active. Given the essential role of physical activity in supporting both mental and physical well-being, the perverse use of smartphones poses a concerning public health issue. This research outlines the need for further research to explore causal links and evaluate whether increasing physical activity can help reduce smartphone addiction. Promoting regular exercise on campus may be a vital step in encouraging healthier habits and reducing tech overuse among students.

Citation: Pirwani, N., Szabo, A. Could physical activity alleviate smartphone addiction in university students? A systematic literature review, Preventive Medicine Reports, Volume 42, 2024. (link)

More Articles in Healthy Campus Projects

The University of Queensland Advances Campus Health and Wellness by Joining FISU Healthy Campus

Posted: 23/04/2026

UniSport Australia (UniSport) is proud to welcome The University of Queensland (UQ) to the FISU Healthy Campus program, advancing their dedication to fostering a thriving campus environment that prioritises the health and wellbeing of the UQ community. UQ’s decision to join Healthy Campus aligns with its Strategic Plan 2026-2029, which has a focus on enhancing the student experience through strengthened support services and a strong sense of belonging across campus. It also builds on […]

Research: Diet and Mental Health: A Clear Link Universities Can’t Ignore

Posted: 09/04/2026

Students are at an increased risk of experiencing mental health challenges during the transition to university, a period that can also negatively impact their diet quality. This systematic review, inclusive of existing international studies, aimed to investigate the relationship between student eating habits and their mental wellbeing. The findings reported that students with healthier diets […]

Research: Strengthening Student Nutrition Through Education

Posted: 09/04/2026

Many university students have limited nutrition knowledge, which can contribute to poor dietary habits and increased long-term health risks. This research was undertaken to investigate whether improving students’ understanding of nutrition translates into healthier food choices. Researchers conducted a scoping review, synthesising findings from a range of international studies that examined the relationship between nutrition […]

FISU Healthy Campus Program Signatories

Keep up to date

Interested in Healthy Campus Content? Sign up to our exclusive mailer.

Join the community

Stay up to date with Healthy Campus news from Australia and around the world.

UniSport acknowledges and pays respect to all traditional custodians of the lands of which we run, jump and throw throughout Australia. We pay respect to elders both past, present and emerging.

Details

Category

Sub Category

Share this