Hey, millennials, look up!
Phone-related accidents are on the rise, a new study found — and millennials suffer the most injuries.
The generation most associated with financial struggles appears to be turning to their cellphones for an escape so intensely that they forget where they are in the physical world, according to the survey published Thursday by science site Study Finds.
After combing through 10 years of data collected from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, researchers concluded that tech-related injuries have jumped by 20% since 2020, “with millennials being the most prone to such incidents.”
A surge in phone-related injuries — which account for 23% of all tech injuries across America — is mostly to blame for the jump.
“From tripping over cords to walking into objects while texting, mobile phones are causing an array of injuries. General pain, contusions (bruises), and even cuts to the face and head are common,” the researchers said.
“Researchers found that texting while walking is on its way to becoming the most common tech injury cause throughout the entire United States.”
Although phone-induced injuries are surging, televisions took home the No. 1 spot for tech-related injuries across the nation, accounting for 30% of tech-related injuries.
The most common reports came in the form of lower back strains and sprains from lifting the heavy idiot boxes, according to the study.
Computers and video game systems have also caused their fair share of the damage.
“The poll found that these devices contribute to various injuries, primarily causing pain in the upper trunk area, including the chest, back, and ribs,” researchers said.
“This is often attributed to poor posture during prolonged gaming or computer use.”
An uptick in these injuries is likely due to the growing reliance in technology in everyday life, especially as people spend more time working from home as a result of COVID-19.
The pandemic led to an increase in dependence on technology for entertainment.
