The findings come from a new survey from Gallup and Meta. Younger adults are more likely to suffer from the condition, which health experts warn can have the same effect on health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
The survey was conducted in 142 countries worldwide, excluding China, the second-most populated country in the world. Researchers believe that the rate of loneliness could likely be higher.
Ellyn Maese, a senior research consultant with Gallup, said, “Research shows that loneliness is associated with elevated risk for a wide range of physical and mental health conditions, making research on loneliness a critical first step to improving health and wellbeing worldwide.”
The data suggests older adults — people 65 and older — reported the lowest incidence of loneliness, with just 17% saying they were feeling “very” or “fairly” lonely. Among young adults aged 19 to 29, however, 27% of respondents reported feeling very or fairly lonely.
The data in the advisory showed that loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of premature death by 26%. Loneliness can also increase susceptibility to viruses and respiratory illness.
Government health officials encouraged investments in simple acts of kindness like answering phone calls from friends or sharing meals.