Loneliness is a serious health problem in many countries, and combating it should be a political priority. Researchers at the University of Sydney have conducted a meta-study that found loneliness to be a widespread and serious health issue in many countries. The study, published in the BMJ, analyzed 57 meta-analyses that examined the health factor of loneliness in 113 countries and territories between 2000 and 2019. The study found that the prevalence of loneliness is lowest in Northern Europe (2.9% for young adults, 2.7% for middle-aged adults, and 5.2% for older adults) and highest in Eastern Europe (7.5% for young adults, 9.6% for middle-aged adults, and 21.3% for older adults).
The high prevalence of loneliness in many regions is a significant public health problem, according to the authors. However, the data used in the meta-study is limited due to the different measurement methods and sampling procedures used in the studies. Additionally, there are few data from low- and middle-income countries that examine the problem of loneliness. In response to the problem of loneliness and its negative impact on health and life expectancy, the researchers are calling on governments to develop targeted measures to combat it.
In a companion commentary also published in the BMJ, Roger O’Sullivan from the Institute of Public Health in Ireland explains that loneliness incurs high costs for society and affected individuals. The scientist also believes that combating loneliness should be a political priority. O’Sullivan also notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that loneliness is not just a problem for seniors. Therefore, the healthcare system must also consider that young people suffer from loneliness and develop approaches that cover the entire lifespan.
