A new study found that smartphone users tend to sit on the toilet longer than those who do not use phones. This can increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids, which involve painful and swollen veins in the anal or rectal area.

Dr. Trisha Basrisha, the lead researcher from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the United States, explains: “Using smartphones in the bathroom is associated with a 46% increased risk of hemorrhoids. We are still uncovering the multiple implications of smartphone use and our modern lifestyles on our health. How and where we use these devices, including inside the bathroom, may have unexpected consequences.”

The study involved 125 adults who were originally undergoing colorectal cancer screening. Participants completed an online questionnaire about their lifestyle and bathroom habits, while doctors assessed their hemorrhoid status.

Results showed that two-thirds of participants admitted to using their smartphones in the bathroom, and this group tended to be younger than non-users. Smartphone users also had significantly longer sitting times, with 37% reporting spending more than five minutes per session, compared to only 7.1% of those who do not bring their phones to the bathroom.

Reading news and browsing social media topped the list of most common activities on phones in the bathroom, followed by checking emails, texting, playing games, and watching videos.

Notably, the study did not find a link between straining during bowel movements and increased risk of hemorrhoids, contrary to previous research.

Dr. Basrisha comments: “This study reinforces public recommendations to leave phones outside the bathroom and try not to exceed a few minutes for bowel movements. If the process takes longer, ask yourself: was it really difficulty in defecation, or was my focus distracted by something else? It’s very easy to lose track of time while browsing – popular apps are designed precisely for this purpose.”

These detailed findings were published in the prestigious scientific journal Plos One.