Avoiding mobile usage in bathrooms: Advised against for hygiene purposes. - Using a smartphone in the bathroom, specifically in the toilet bowl, can potentially increase the risk of damaging the device due to liquid exposure, as well as potential health concerns due to germs and bacteria.
A recent study, reported in the journal "PLOS One", has shed light on a common habit that might have unexpected health consequences. According to the study, led by Trisha Pasricha of Harvard Medical School, prolonged smartphone usage on the toilet could potentially increase the risk of enlarged hemorrhoids.
The study, involving 125 adults, found that 66% of the participants used their smartphones while on the toilet. Among 25- to 34-year-olds in Germany, this figure rose to over 80%. On average, 54% of adults in Germany use their phones on the toilet, with men using them more (58%) than women (49%).
The survey also revealed that many users are surprised by how quickly time passes when using their phones on the toilet. In fact, over 37% of those who used their smartphones on the toilet spent more than 5 minutes per visit.
However, the study also highlighted a concerning hygiene issue. Only 39% of respondents said they clean their phone after using the toilet, with women cleaning their phones more frequently than men (44% vs. 33%).
Microbiologist Markus Egert from Furtwangen University explained that a phone's flora mirrors the owner's hand flora. He emphasised the importance of cleaning smartphones after toilet use, for example with an alcohol-based lens cleaning cloth.
Despite not being a good breeding ground for germs, fecal bacteria can still adhere to smartphones. This could potentially lead to the spread of harmful bacteria, highlighting the importance of maintaining cleanliness.
Experts suggest sitting on the closed toilet seat for those who find it hard to give up the toilet as a brief break retreat. For instance, sitting on the closed seat can help reduce the risk of germs being transferred from the toilet to the phone.
The study also detected hemorrhoids in 43% of the participants using a colonoscopy. While the study does not prove causation, it does suggest a potential connection between smartphone usage on the toilet and the risk of enlarged hemorrhoids.
In conclusion, while smartphones offer convenience in many aspects of our lives, this study serves as a reminder to maintain good hygiene practices, especially when using them in the bathroom.
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