According to an American study, loneliness is linked to an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease or be a stroke (cerebrovascular accident).
Scientists from the University of New York (United States) reviewed 23 published studies in journals. All wore on stress and heart disease. In all, 181,000 healthy adults were followed. Of these, 4600 have suffered from a coronary disease, an arterial blockage due to an accumulation of cholesterol. Also, 3,000 others suffered a stroke.
The scientists found that one person has an increased risk of 29% of suffering a heart attack or angina and 32% greater risk of having a stroke. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes … The researchers note that loneliness affects lifestyle. A single individual will tend to spend less, smoke more and eat less balanced.
Finally, the authors suggest that the lack of actual interactions may be a factor in assessing the health status of their patients.
Results of the work were published in the journal Heart.
