Those with greater levels of internet addiction² are more likely to succumb³ to illness, than those who spend fewer hours online.

 

Researchers at the universities of Swansea and Milan believe the reason lies in the fact people with an internet addiction are more secluded⁴, and as a result have weakened immune systems.

 

They said the lack of interaction with other people and less time spent outside exposing themselves to germs played a role.

 

Past studies have also found people who spend more time online experience greater sleep deprivation⁵, have worse eating habits, engage in less exercise and tend to smoke and drink more alcohol.

 

These behaviours can harm their immune system and increase vulnerability to diseases.

 

Professor Phil Read, from Swansea University, said: 'We found that the impact of the internet on people's health was independent of a range of other factors, like depression, sleep deprivation, and loneliness, which are associated with high levels of internet use and also with poor health.'

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