Loneliness: A silent epidemic impacting global health
Loneliness is often described as a modern malady. It can affect individuals irrespective of age, economic status, or social standing. Recent research suggests that interactions with loved ones can reduce the risk of various health issues, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, infections, and even cancers. "More and more people of all ages are reporting feeling lonely," notes one researcher.
Recent studies by scientists from the University of Cambridge and Fudan University suggest that loneliness and social isolation can lead to serious health issues. An analysis of medical data from over 42,000 people aged 40-69, participants in the UK Biobank project, has shown that social interactions are crucial for good health.
Scientific evidence increasingly indicates that social isolation and loneliness are linked to poorer health outcomes and earlier mortality. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
The authors of the new study, published in the journal "Nature Human Behaviour," examined the proteome, or the set of proteins found in the blood samples of participants. By analysing these proteins and considering factors such as age, gender, and socio-economic background, they identified 175 proteins associated with social isolation and 26 proteins linked to loneliness, noting that the concentration of many of these molecules changed in both scenarios.
Many of these proteins are produced in response to inflammation and infections. Some are linked to cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and early mortality.
Is loneliness the worst "disease"?
Scientists employed an advanced statistical technique known as Mendelian randomisation to explore the causal relationship between social isolation, loneliness, and protein concentrations. Through this approach, they identified five proteins whose levels were linked to loneliness.
One protein, which responds strongly to loneliness, is ADM. It regulates stress hormones and oxytocin, impacting mood and social relationships. Higher levels of ADM are associated with reduced volumes in brain areas responsible for interoception and a higher risk of premature death.
In contrast, the ASGR1 protein is linked to elevated cholesterol levels and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Other identified proteins are involved in the development of insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, and cancer progression.
The loneliness epidemic
Professor Barbara Sahakian from the University of Cambridge highlights that social isolation and loneliness are recognised 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, emphasises Professor Barbara Sahakian.
Studies suggest that loneliness and a lack of emotional support can lead to emotional and health problems later in life. It is crucial for society to implement programmes that prevent social isolation and support young people in building healthy relationships.
Modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and advanced proteomics, could help identify key proteins that might revolutionise the prevention and treatment of many diseases.
Research from Arizona State University has demonstrated that loneliness during childhood is associated with a higher risk of alcohol problems in adulthood. The pandemic has exacerbated isolation, increasing the number of children experiencing loneliness.
