NAIROBI, Kenya – A new study has raised health concerns over the common habit of scrolling through a smartphone while sitting on the toilet, warning it could significantly increase the risk of developing haemorrhoids.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre in the US found that phone use during toilet visits was linked to a 46 per cent higher chance of haemorrhoids, a painful condition caused by swollen veins in the rectum or anus.
The study, which involved 125 adults undergoing bowel cancer screening, asked participants to complete surveys on their toilet habits while doctors assessed them for haemorrhoids.
Two-thirds of participants admitted to using their phones in the bathroom, with younger people more likely to do so.
Smartphone users also spent more time on the toilet — 37 percent stayed seated for more than five minutes, compared to only 7.1 percent of non-users.
The most common activities were scrolling through social media, reading news articles, texting, checking emails, playing games, and watching videos.
“Using a smartphone while on the toilet was linked to a 46 per cent increased chance of having haemorrhoids,” said lead researcher Dr. Trisha Pasricha.
Interestingly, the study found that straining during bowel movements was not associated with a higher risk, contradicting some previous research.
Understanding Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in or around the anus and rectum.
They can cause itching, pain, bleeding after bowel movements, or lumps near the anus.
Risk factors include prolonged sitting on the toilet, chronic constipation, straining, and low-fibre diets.
Doctors advise that eating more fiber-rich foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding long toilet sessions can help reduce the risk.
