Loneliness linked to severe health risks, new study reveals
Loneliness is often described as a modern illness affecting people of all ages, economic backgrounds, and social standings. Recent research indicates that interactions with loved ones can reduce the risk of health issues, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, infections, and even cancers. "More and more people of all ages are reporting feeling lonely," notes one researcher.
The latest studies by scientists from the University of Cambridge and Fudan University suggest that loneliness and social isolation can lead to serious health problems. An analysis of medical data from over 42,000 individuals aged 40 to 69 participating in the UK Biobank project revealed the crucial role social interactions play in health.
Scientific evidence increasingly shows that both social isolation and loneliness are associated with poorer health and earlier death. However, the mechanisms behind these associations remain unclear.
Authors of a new study published in the journal "Nature Human Behaviour" examined the proteome or the set of proteins present in blood samples from participants. After analyzing these proteins and considering factors such as age, gender, and socio-economic status, they discovered 175 proteins associated with social isolation and 26 proteins related to loneliness, with many of these molecules changing their concentrations in both situations.
Many of these proteins are produced in response to inflammation and infections. Some are linked to cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and earlier death.
Is loneliness the worst "disease"?
Scientists also employed an advanced statistical technique called Mendelian randomization to explore the causal relationship between social isolation and loneliness and protein concentrations. Using this method, they identified five proteins whose levels were associated with loneliness.
One protein, ADM, responds strongly to loneliness and is responsible for regulating stress hormones and oxytocin, which affect mood and social relationships. Higher levels of ADM are linked to reduced volumes in brain areas responsible for interoception and a greater risk of premature death.
Conversely, the ASGR1 protein is associated with higher cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Other identified proteins contribute to the development of insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, and the progression of cancer.
The loneliness epidemic
Professor Barbara Sahakian from the University of Cambridge emphasizes that social isolation and loneliness are recognized by the World Health Organization as a global public health issue.
These findings drive home the importance of social contact in keeping us well. More and more people of all ages are reporting feeling lonely. That’s why the World Health Organization has described social isolation and loneliness as a ‘global public health concern’. We need to find ways to tackle this growing problem and keep people connected to help them stay healthy — Professor Barbara Sahakian
Studies suggest that loneliness and lack of emotional support can lead to emotional and health challenges later in life. It is vital to develop programs that prevent social isolation and support young people in building healthy relationships.
Modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence and advanced proteomics, could help identify key proteins, potentially revolutionizing the prevention and treatment of many diseases.
Research from Arizona State University has shown that loneliness in childhood is linked with a higher risk of alcohol problems in adulthood. The pandemic has further intensified isolation, increasing the number of children experiencing loneliness.
