Scientists have announced the risk of premature death due to loneliness

 People who were socially isolated or often felt lonely were more likely to die earlier from any cause, including cancer.

Scientists from Harbin Medical University stated that loneliness and social isolation can significantly shorten life expectancy and cause many fatal diseases. Research by specialists was published in the journal Nature Human Behavior

Doctors studied data from 90 studies involving more than 2.2 million people from around the world. Patients who reported being socially isolated or often feeling alone were more likely to die earlier from any cause, including cancer.

According to experts, this is due to the fact that such people are less likely to follow a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. In addition, social isolation is associated with inflammation and weakening of the immune system. Such patients are less likely to receive high-quality and timely medical care due to a small number of social connections, the scientists clarified.

The research was conducted in high-income countries, so the results may not be correct for less wealthy countries, the study clarifies.

Experts advised single people to participate in social and community groups to strengthen a sense of belonging, and to avoid excessive use of social networks.