Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified loneliness as an urgent global health threat, warning that its effects can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Loneliness has significant health consequences, disrupting biological functions, increasing psychological stress, and leading to behavioral issues.
WHO warns that loneliness and social isolation affect people of all ages worldwide, with significant yet often overlooked health consequences. According to WHO, current global estimates indicate that 1 in 4 older adults experience social isolation, while between 5% and 15% of adolescents report feeling lonely.
The health risks associated with loneliness are severe. Studies show that individuals who lack social connections face a higher risk of earlier death, underscoring the urgent need for global attention to this issue. Beyond personal well-being, loneliness and social isolation also undermine communities and societies.
International Commission
To address the issue, WHO has launched an international commission on social connections led by U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy and African Union youth envoy Chido Mpemba. The commission, which includes 11 activists and government ministers from around the world, aims to better understand the public health impact of loneliness.
The initiative comes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted social and economic activities, exacerbating loneliness while also bringing new awareness to the problem.
“[Loneliness] transcends borders and has become a global public health concern, impacting every aspect of health, well-being, and development,” Chido Mpemba said, as reported by The Guardian.
Overlooked Consequences
WHO emphasized that the health risks effects of loneliness are comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes daily. Loneliness are associated with increased mortality rates similar to those linked to smoking, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and air pollution.
Despite its serious health implications, loneliness remains largely overlooked. “For too long, loneliness has been hidden in the shadows, unrecognized and underestimated, despite its role in driving both mental and physical illnesses,” Dr. Murthy state as reported by CNN.
Among older adults, loneliness has been linked to a 50% increased risk of dementia and a 30% higher risk of coronary artery disease or stroke.
Read Also:
Are You Drinking Plastic? How Tea Bags May Contaminate Your Tea
The impact extends to younger generations as well, with 5% and 15% of teenagers experience lonelines. In Africa, 12.7% of adolescents report feeling lonely, compared to 5.3% in Europe.
Loneliness in school-aged youth also increases the likelihood of dropping out, while in the workforce, feeling isolated and unsupported can lead to lower job satisfaction and reduced performance.
“We believe it is crucial to redefine the narrative surrounding loneliness, especially for vulnerable groups marginalized by the digital divide,” Chido Mpemba added.
WHO emphasize that addressing loneliness requires a comprehensive global effort, including public health initiatives, workplace policies, and community programs that foster meaningful social connections. As awareness grows, the WHO urges governments, organizations, and individuals to take proactive steps in combating this silent epidemic before its long-term effects become even more severe.
(Raidi/Agung)
