Social isolation raises the risk of stroke, heart disease, and early death

Portrait of teenage girl looking at her smartphone, sad, anxious, alone. Cyberbullying, girl is harassed, threated online.
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A WHO report reveals that social connection improves health and lowers the risk of early death, with one in six people experiencing loneliness globally

In a significant new report, the World Health Organisation (WHO) emphasises the urgency of the issue, highlighting the connection between social connection and health outcomes. The report reveals that one in six people globally experience loneliness, a condition that can lead to reduced health and premature death. The WHO calls for immediate, coordinated action across governments and communities to address this growing public health concern.

“In this report, we unveil loneliness and isolation as a defining challenge of our time. Our Commission presents a roadmap for building more connected lives, emphasising the profound impact this can have on health, educational, and economic outcomes,” said Dr Vivek Murthy, Co-chair of the WHO Commission on Social Connection, and former Surgeon General of the United States of America. This roadmap offers hope for a future with stronger social connections and improved health outcomes.

Social connection is vital for long-term physical and mental health

Social connection refers to the ways people relate to and interact with others. Loneliness arises from a gap between the desired and actual social connections, while social isolation refers to an objective lack of social connections.

“In this age when the possibilities to connect are endless, more and more people are finding themselves isolated and lonely,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Apart from the toll it takes on individuals, families and communities, left unaddressed, loneliness and social isolation will continue to cost society billions in terms of health care, education, and employment. I welcome the Commission’s report, which shines a light on the scale and impact of loneliness and isolation, and outlines key areas in which we can help people to reconnect in ways that matter most.”

Loneliness has a profound effect on youths and people living in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Between 17% and 21% of individuals aged 13–29 reported feeling lonely, with the highest rates among teenagers. Approximately 24% of people in low-income countries reported feeling lonely, which is twice the rate in high-income countries (approximately 11%).

“Even in a digitally connected world, many young people feel alone. As technology reshapes our lives, we must ensure it strengthens—not weakens—human connection. Our report shows that social connection must be integrated into all policies—from digital access to health, education, and employment,” said Chido Mpemba, Co-chair of the WHO Commission on Social Connection and Advisor to the African Union Chairperson. 

Data on social isolation are limited, but it is estimated to affect up to one in three older adults and one in four adolescents. Some groups, such as people with disabilities, refugees or migrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and indigenous groups and ethnic minorities, may face discrimination or additional barriers that make social connections harder.

Loneliness and social isolation can be exacerbated by poor health, low income and education, inadequate public policies, and a lack of community infrastructure.

The impact of isolation on health, quality of life, and economies

 Social connection offers protective benefits across the lifespan. It can reduce inflammation, lower the risk of serious health problems, foster mental health, and prevent early death. However, loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, and premature death.

Furthermore, loneliness has a significant impact on learning and employment. For example, teenagers who felt lonely were 22% more likely to get lower grades or qualifications.

Following the report’s findings, the WHO has outlined a roadmap for global action, focusing on five key areas: policy, research, interventions, improved measurement (including the development of a worldwide Social Connection Index), and public engagement. It calls for national, community and individual engagement.

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