Pokémon Go 'side-effect' is increased exercise, doctor says
Pokémon Go players are benefiting from the 'side-effect' of increased exercise while taking part in the game, according to an article in the British Medical Journal (BMJ).
The game is not marketed as a health app but gamers do a lot of walking during play which is an unintended 'side-effect', states Dr Margaret McCartney in the BMJ editorial.
The Glasgow GP said the popular app has made the streets of Britain a "reclaimed playground in which to have interconnected fun".
The Glasgow GP highlights some of the pros and cons that have been reported since the game was launched.
One player walked 140 miles (225km) and lost two stone (12.7kg) while collecting all of the characters, she said, highlighting claims that the app could ease the burden of obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
However, she cautions that these claims are not from scientific studies but anecdotal evidence.
Dr McCartney also highlights some of the problems that have come from playing the game.
Players have been particularly warned about the possible dangers of become engrossed in the game and forgetting about their surroundings.
In July, three teenagers had their mobiles stolen at gunpoint while playing the game.