Prevention · Loneliness and health
Loneliness is linked to changes in the blood associated with heart disease
What the study found
Scientists from Cambridge and Fudan universities analyzed blood samples from 42,062 adults in the UK Biobank, a large health database in the United Kingdom. They measured almost 3,000 proteins in the blood. They compared protein levels in people who were socially isolated or felt lonely with those who were not. Several proteins involved in inflammation and the body's immune defenses showed differences. More than half of these proteins were linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and death during 14 years of follow-up. A genetic analysis suggested that loneliness may increase the levels of five of these proteins. These proteins appeared to explain part of the connection between loneliness and disease.
What this means in practice
Staying connected with other people is also a way to care for your health. Calling a friend, joining a group, attending a church, taking a class, or participating in neighborhood activities are possible steps. If loneliness is affecting you, talk to a healthcare professional. Support is available.
Study limitations
Most participants were white British adults. Much of the research was observational, and the genetic analysis only suggests a possible cause. It does not prove one. There is no blood test for loneliness.
Important notice: Mais Anos summarizes scientific studies for information only. It is not medical advice, does not diagnose and promises no cure. Always talk to your doctor before changing treatments or habits.
