People who are lonely and socially isolated are at a 16 percent higher risk for cardiovascular issues like heart attacks, according to a recent review of multiple studies. The researchers reviewed six studies involving 104,511 patients from Australia, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Denmark, England, and Germany. The prevalence of loneliness ranged from 5 percent to 65.
3 percent among the patients while that of social isolation ranged from 2 percent to 56.5 percent. A total of 5,073 cardiovascular events were recorded, with main outcomes being “myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, heart attack, heart failure hospitalization, and death from [cardiovascular disease].
” Moreover, “poor social relationships were associated with a 16 percent increase” in risk of incident cardiovascular disease. “The prevalence and risk for social isolation and loneliness appear highest for old and retired people,” the review said. The research was funded by the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia.
The authors of the study declared no competing interests. Lack of, poor, or insufficient social connection can result in a 29 percent higher risk of heart disease, a 50 percent greater risk of dementia among older adults, and a 32 percent increased risk of stroke, the surgeon general stated. Lack of social connection also boosts the risk of premature death by more than 60 percent.
“Our relationships are a source of healing and well-being hiding.
