ALBAWABA - Smartwatches have become indispensable accessories in our daily lives, serving not only as fashion accessories but also for the services and features they offer, making our lives easier in terms of health, sports, and even smart living.
However, a new study published on "Science Alert" has issued a warning that their bands may be teeming with harmful bacteria.
The study revealed that 95% of 20 different smartwatch straps tested were contaminated with disease-causing bacteria.
The research team from Florida Atlantic University examined disease-causing species such as staphylococci, intestinal bacteria (such as E. coli), and pseudomonas, all of which can lead to infections under certain conditions.
However, the study noted differences in the types of bands used. Rubber and plastic bands contained the highest number of bacteria, while metal bands that were tested (especially gold and silver) were almost bacteria-free.
Nwadiuto Esiobu, a biologist from Florida Atlantic University, commented, "Plastic and rubber bands may provide a more conducive environment for bacterial growth, as porous and rigid surfaces tend to attract and host bacteria." Other research has suggested that wristwatches and similar devices can be potential sources of infection in hospitals, but few investigations have delved into the details of how different materials harbor microbes. The bacteria tested in this study are among the most common bacteria found in the body and the environment, and under certain conditions, they can lead to diseases such as abscesses, pneumonia, and salmonella.
Esiobu added, "The quantity and types of bacteria we found on the bands suggest a need for regular cleaning of these surfaces," and highlighted the importance of "studying other potential pathways for bacterial transfer and infection facilitation, such as earphones or mobile phones."
Returning to the smartwatches themselves, despite their numerous benefits and features, they also have several negative effects on mental and physical health. Here are the top 4 problems:
Constantly Tracking Calories:
Focusing on calorie burning and receiving constant reminders can negatively affect mental health, especially for those with eating disorders or those unable to engage in daily exercise to burn more calories.
Constant Attention Distraction:
Owning a smartwatch means having another device for receiving notifications constantly, which can affect your mental health and distract you. Receiving a large number of notifications from your phone and smartwatch can lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems, as well as reduced concentration during various tasks.
Excessive Exercise:
If you regularly use a smartwatch, you may be inclined to over-exercise due to the features encouraging you to increase your fitness goals each week. Completing fitness goals can bring happiness, making it easy to become obsessed with achieving fitness goals at the expense of your mental health and causing physical problems.
Risk of Addiction:
Due to the frequent receipt of encouraging badges and attractive animations displayed on smartwatches each time you achieve a specific goal, it's easy to become addicted to using smartwatches.
