Study Links Loneliness to Health Risks Through Protein Levels

A new study has established a connection between loneliness and adverse health outcomes, revealing that individuals who experience social isolation may have elevated levels of certain proteins associated with various diseases, The Guardian reported.

Researchers analyzed data from over 42,000 participants in the UK Biobank project, focusing on the 9.3% who reported social isolation and 6.4% who felt lonely. The study identified 175 proteins linked to social isolation and 26 proteins associated with loneliness, many of which were found at higher levels in those reporting these feelings. These proteins play roles in inflammation, antiviral responses, and immune functions.

Significantly, about 90% of these proteins are linked to mortality risk, while 50% are associated with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke.

Using Mendelian randomization, researchers explored whether genetic variants related to loneliness correlated with higher protein levels. They found that while no proteins caused loneliness, five proteins were influenced by it, indicating a biological mechanism connecting loneliness to health issues.

Professor Barbara Sahakian from the University of Cambridge highlighted the need to recognize the health implications of social connections, emphasizing that both mental and physical health are affected by social engagement. Professor Marko Elovainio from the University of Helsinki noted that addressing stress-related behaviors, such as alcohol consumption and inactivity, may be crucial in reducing health risks linked to loneliness.