Study Links Loneliness to Increased Risk of Physical Pain Across the Globe

A comprehensive study led by researchers from City St George's, University of London, has uncovered compelling evidence that loneliness is strongly associated with higher levels of physical pain worldwide. The investigation analyzed data from over 256,760 individuals aged 15 to 100 across 139 countries, collected through the 2023 and 2024 Gallup World Poll. Findings revealed that those who reported feeling lonely were more than twice as likely to experience physical pain compared to their less lonely counterparts.

The research, published in Scientific Reports, also found that loneliness correlates with increased chances of reporting health problems and psychological distress. Specifically, lonely individuals faced over double the odds of pain and nearly twice the likelihood of health issues. Psychological distress was identified as a significant mediator, accounting for over 60% of the association between loneliness and pain.

Led by Dr. Lucía Macchia and Dr. Anne-Kathrin Fett from the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, the study examined various factors contributing to this link. Socio-economic disadvantages, such as lower education levels, reduced employment status, and lower income, were common among lonely individuals. Interestingly, the association persisted across all age groups and was more pronounced in women.

Moreover, the study highlighted cultural differences, noting that the strength of the loneliness-pain relationship varied across countries. While loneliness, pain, and distress were most prevalent in poorer nations, the variations did not directly follow economic patterns but rather reflected cultural norms and social structures.

Despite many individuals reporting social connections or satisfaction with their social interactions, the relationship with pain remained significant among lonely persons, suggesting that loneliness extends beyond mere social contact deficits to impact overall health and well-being.

Dr. Macchia emphasized the importance of viewing loneliness as a multi-dimensional health challenge requiring comprehensive strategies addressing psychological, social, and economic factors. The research underscores the urgent need for interventions targeted at reducing loneliness and its adverse health effects worldwide.

This study underscores the importance of recognizing loneliness as a critical factor influencing physical health, urging healthcare providers and policymakers to develop informed and culturally sensitive solutions to mitigate its impacts.