Loneliness and Social Isolation As Risk Factors: The Power of Social Connection in Prevention

Overview

Journal Am J Lifestyle Med

Publisher Sage Publications

Date 2021 Oct 14

PMID 34646109

Citations 29

Authors

Julianne Holt-Lunstad

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Social isolation and loneliness were already pressing concerns prior to the pandemic, but recent trends suggest a potential broadening of this public health crisis. Social connections have potent influences on health and longevity, and lacking social connection qualifies as a risk factor for premature mortality. However, social factors are often overlooked in medical and healthcare practice. There is also evidence documenting effects on biomarkers and health-relevant behaviors, as well as more proximal means social connection influences physical health. A recent National Academy of Science consensus committee report provides recommendations for how this evidence can inform medical and healthcare. Clinicians play an important role in assessing, preventing, and mitigating the adverse effects of social isolation and loneliness.

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