The World Health Organization has likened loneliness to the health dangers provided by smoking 15 cigarettes per day. Loneliness is a severe worldwide health concern, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has equated the impact of Loneliness on mortality to smoking 15 cigarettes each day.
In light of this growing concern, WHO has convened an international group led by Dr. Murthy and Chido Mpemba, the African Union’s youth envoy. Eleven activists and public workers from across the world have formed a coalition to tackle the adverse effects of isolation on people’s health and happiness. Â
This initiative is long overdue. It corresponds with the world’s efforts to recover from the COVID-19 epidemic, which severely hampered economic and social activity while simultaneously increasing rates of isolation. The World Health Organization’s Commission on Social Connection will convene for three years, underlining the significance of both immediate and continuous action. Â
Mpemba stressed that isolation affects people of all ages and backgrounds all across the world. According to Dr. Murthy, isolation is as harmful as smoking up to 15 cigarettes each day, making it considerably more deadly than being overweight or unfit. Â
Contrary to popular belief, Loneliness is more prevalent in wealthy cultures; according to the commission, one in every four older people worldwide suffers from social isolation. This consistent total refutes the concept that this problem is limited to a specific region of the globe. Â
Lonely seniors have a 50% greater risk of getting dementia, as well as a 30% increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. However, the detrimental impacts do not only affect older people; they affect people of all ages. An estimated 5%-15% of teenagers report feeling lonely, with the incidence in Africa (12.7%) being more significant than in Europe (5.3%). Â
The long-term consequences for the following generation are complex. Isolation among teenagers has been related to low life satisfaction and an increased probability of dropping out of school. Loneliness and isolation in the workplace may have a detrimental influence on morale and productivity. Â
Chido Mpemba emphasized the particular difficulties confronting Africa, where a substantial proportion of the population is made up of young people dealing with issues such as peace, security, climate disaster, and high unemployment. She stressed the need to recast the tale of isolation, particularly for minority populations that have been left behind in the digital inclusion movement. Â
Dr. Murthy went on to say, “These issues don’t affect one country… [Loneliness] is an underappreciated public health threat.” This statement underscores the problem’s worldwide scope. The World Health Organization has formed a Commission on Social Connection to address the global problem of loneliness.
News Reference Â
WHO declares loneliness a “global public health concern.” (2023). Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2023/nov/16/who-declares-loneliness-a-global-public-health-concernÂ
