Loneliness has far-reaching complications than just hampering your mental health. Research has shown that it puts you at direct risk of developing a myriad of health complications, specifically chronic diseases. In another study published recently in American Cancer Society Journals, scientists have shown how living alone can increase your risk of dying from cancer.
Living Alone Increases Risk Of Cancer Death
The study found that when compared to adults living together, those who live by themselves have a 32% higher risk of cancer death. This risk is particularly high for adults aged 45-64, where the likelihood of cancer death is 43% greater.
This study holds significance in the fact that cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, which is one in six deaths worldwide. This data was provided by the World Health Organisation, which stated, ‘Many cancers can be cured if detected early and treated effectively.’ Hence, the findings of this study and more such research are important in identifying the risk factors and enabling timely treatment of cancer.
Also Read: The Dangers of Loneliness: Study Suggests It Can Increase The Risk of Dementia
Cancer Mortality Risk Factor
When the researchers adjusted their findings considering factors like sex, poverty level, and educational attainment, their results were maintained that showed similar associations between living alone and cancer mortality.
Assessing data collected between 1998 and 2019, the research team looked at 4,75,000 adults over the course of 22 years. The study revealed that out of the control group, cancer deaths amounted to 1.6% among people living with others, compared to, 2.5% deaths among those living alone.
In conclusion, the study underscored the importance of caring for those living by themselves, especially people who are fighting cancer or are cancer survivors. Concluding their study, the research team called for appropriate interventions to reduce the adverse effects of loneliness and social isolation.