A new study reveals that smartphone use during toilet time significantly increases the risk of hemorrhoids, with a 46% higher incidence among regular users, and doctors are noting a surge in cases among younger patients. Published in PLOS One and led by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, the study attributes this trend to prolonged sitting and distraction caused by scrolling, which exacerbates rectal pressure and blood pooling.
The research surveyed 125 adults undergoing colonoscopies, using endoscopy to confirm hemorrhoid presence, and found that 66% of participants regularly used smartphones in the bathroom. Those who did spent significantly more time on the toilet, with 37% exceeding five minutes per session compared to only 7% of non-users. The extended sitting time, rather than factors like straining or constipation, was identified as the primary driver of increased risk.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching, pain, and bleeding. The study explains that sitting on an open toilet seat compresses the rectal area, reducing pelvic floor support and leading to blood engorgement. Poor posture from hunching over phones while scrolling further aggravates this by altering the natural angle for bowel movements, making elimination less efficient.
Younger generations are particularly affected, as they are more likely to carry smartphones everywhere, including the bathroom. Dr. Trisha Pasricha, the study’s senior author, noted that while the research focused on adults 45 and older for baseline comparison, the issue is more profound among youth due to higher smartphone dependency. Gastroenterologists like Dr. Sandhya Shukla have observed a rise in hemorrhoid diagnoses in younger patients, linking it to modern lifestyle habits.
Additional risk factors such as low fiber intake, obesity, and sedentary behavior contribute to hemorrhoid development, but smartphone use on the toilet is a key modern exacerbator. The study found no correlation between phone use and increased straining or constipation, suggesting that passive, distracted sitting is the main culprit. This challenges previous beliefs that active effort during bowel movements is the primary cause.
Experts recommend avoiding smartphone use in the bathroom altogether or limiting toilet time to three to five minutes to reduce risk. Practical tips include setting a timer, being mindful of scrolling habits, and getting up if a bowel movement doesn’t occur quickly. The squatted position is ideal for natural elimination, but modern toilet designs often discourage this, highlighting the need for awareness about proper bathroom ergonomics.
This study underscores the broader health implications of smartphone addiction and screen time, calling for increased public education on preventive measures. As hemorrhoid diagnoses continue to climb, especially among the young, healthcare providers may integrate advice on bathroom habits into routine care. The findings could inspire further research into technology’s impact on daily health behaviors and prompt campaigns similar to those for colorectal cancer awareness.