Video games might damage brains - Image 1Department of Psychiatry of Taipei Veterans General Hospital Doctor Chou Yuan-hua showed that prolonged playing of violent video games may actually damage the brain.The experiment took in 30 people, each one aged 25. The sample population then underwent physical examinations to monitor the blood circulation before and after playing a video game for 30 minutes.Results showed that playing games actually decreased blood flow to the brain. Those who were exposed to violent games saw an even bigger drop in blood circulation. These have also been proven by previous studies.Chou pointed out that the decrease in blood to the brain could potentially damage two parts of the internal organ: the frontal lobe of the brain and the anterior cingulate gyrus. The doctor also mentioned that based on previous clinical experiences, individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or depression have lower blood flow in their frontal lobes and anterior cingulate gyruses.

So does this mean that we have to give up our hobby of gaming? Well, far from it. While no conclusions have been made about this decrease in blood flow, the study should serve as a reminder for all you game-loving folks out there: playing for extended periods of time on a regular basis is not healthy.

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