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Kids with smartphones by age 12 face higher risks of depression, obesity and insufficient sleep, researchers found

The study analyzed data from over 10,500 participants in the largest U.S. child brain development study

Experts suggest families weigh risks and benefits, emphasizing monitoring kids’ smartphone use and its impact on wellbeing

Children who are given smartphones before the age of 12 are more likely to develop certain health problems, researchers report.

According to a piece published by the journal Pediatrics on Monday, Dec. 1, kids studied at age 12 were at a 1.3 times higher risk of depression, a 1.6 times higher risk of insufficient sleep and a 1.4 times higher risk of obesity, compared with children who didn't yet have smartphones.

Researchers at Chil

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