Narrative review on factors related to health in video games and electronic sport

Abstract

The objective of this work was to analyze the empirical evidence on the physiological effects, performance and health of video game and electronic sports players. A narrative review of the scientific literature was carried out on the state of the art of factors associated with physiology, performance and health, in video games and electronic sports. Results showed important findings in the levels of five hormones, high systolic blood pressure and increased heart rate; it was found in exergaming favorable results with some ergogenic aids, brain activation and cognitive, sensorimotor and corticospinal performance, strength, balance, cardiovascular capacities, and social and psychological well-being; eSports can cause eye fatigue, myofascial syndrome, tendinosis, musculoskeletal pain/syndromes, consumption of unhealthy food, sugary drinks, stimulants or doping substances, affect sleep and heart rate variation; and the causes, symptoms, profiles and relationship of Internet gaming disorder (IGD) with addiction to video games and electronic sports were also determined. In conclusion, it is noteworthy the positive impact of practising electronic sports and video games on health, and measures must be taken with electronic sports players to avoid the negative effects of excessive use of video games.

Keywords: eSport, videogames, exergaming, physic health, physiology, addiction