Deadly isolation: Researchers have discovered that loneliness can make us sick.

A recent study has revealed the significant impact of social interactions on our physical health. It demonstrated that strong relationships can greatly bolster our immune system and reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, regular socializing has the potential to make us somewhat healthier than lonely and isolated individuals, according to News Medical.

The scientific data were obtained from research conducted by scientists from the University of Cambridge and Fudan University, published in the journal Nature Human Behavior. They analyzed blood proteins from over 42,000 participants in the UK Biobank. The study provided a unique molecular perspective on the link between social relationships and overall well-being.

Social isolation and loneliness, while related, are distinct experiences with measurable consequences. Isolation is an objective condition defined by factors such as living alone or low frequency of social contacts, whereas loneliness is subjective, based on an individual's perception of their connectedness to their surroundings.

The research identified numerous proteins associated with both conditions: 175 linked to isolation and 26 to loneliness, with many of these proteins significantly overlapping. Many of them are related to immune responses and diseases such as cardiovascular disorders and diabetes, reinforcing the idea that social connections are crucial for health.

A key finding of the study was the identification of five proteins directly influenced by loneliness, including ADM—a protein associated with stress regulation and the processing of emotional signals in the brain. Elevated levels of ADM were linked to small areas of the brain, such as the insula and left tail, which are vital for emotional and social functions, as well as an increased risk of premature death.

Other proteins, such as ASGR1, were associated with conditions like cardiovascular diseases and insulin resistance, further confirming the biological basis of the impact of social deprivation on health. Experts involved in the study emphasized the need for developing public strategies to combat loneliness and foster connections. Dr. Chun Shen noted that these findings could pave the way for innovative treatment methods targeting proteins associated with social isolation and loneliness.

Professor Barbara Sahakian called this issue a global public health challenge and urged prioritizing social well-being to maintain population health. The World Health Organization previously identified social isolation as one of its major concerns, especially in light of global demographic changes leading to an increase in single-person households.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you are experiencing issues, please consult a specialist.