Smokers may become more socially isolated and lonely than non-smokers as they age, new research suggests.
Previous research has found that people who are isolated and lonely are more likely to smoke. But a new study, the first of its kind, found that smoking itself can cause higher levels of isolation and loneliness.
This week, the study Lancet Regional Health Europe The study, led by researchers from Imperial College London and UCL, investigated the relationship between smoking and the development of social isolation and loneliness.
They found that smokers had less social contact over time, were less socially engaged, and were more lonely than non-smokers. As many smokers vow to quit at the start of the new year, the authors hope the new study will provide fresh motivation.
Study author Dr Keir Philip, from Imperial’s National Heart and Lung Institute, said: “Our research shows that in addition to establishing the physical effects of smoking, it also negatively impacts aspects of psychological and social health. This suggests that it may have an impact.”
“Some people think that smoking is a social activity, but our study did not support this idea. In fact, smokers became more socially isolated than non-smokers over time, and our study did not support this idea. You get lonely.ā
āThis study provides further reasons for people to aim to quit smoking in the new year and adds to the justification for increasing support for people trying to quit.ā Dr. Kia Phillip National Heart and Lung Institute Clinical Researcher
He added: “Our findings contribute to existing knowledge in the field and suggest the existence of a vicious cycle of smoking, social isolation and loneliness. This study suggests that people should aim to quit smoking in the new year. It provides further reasons.” There is a case for increasing support for people trying to quit smoking. ā
The new study used data from the British Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA), a nationally representative sample of 8,780 people aged 50 and over. Participants’ social isolation and loneliness were assessed over a 12-year period (first, then 4, 8, and 12 years later).
Researchers found that at the start of the study, current smokers were more likely to be lonely and socially isolated than non-smokers, had less frequent social interactions with family and friends, and were less likely to have social interactions with their community. They found that they participated in cultural activities less frequently and were more socially isolated. More likely to live alone.
Smoking was also associated with significantly reduced social contact, increased social withdrawal, and increased feelings of loneliness over time.
These results remained even after accounting for factors such as age, gender, and socio-economic status.
Possible factors
Because this study is observational, it is not possible to determine the cause of this association, but the authors speculate that it may be due to a variety of factors.
For example, smokers are at higher risk of developing shortness of breath and physical health problems such as lung and heart disease, which limit their ability to socialize.
Similarly, smoking is associated with an increased risk of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, which can affect the amount of socializing you do.
āThese findings are another reason for the government to move forward with putting in place the policies needed to reach the 2030 smoke-free goal.ā Professor Nick Hopkinson Professor, Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Heart and Lung Institute
Additionally, friends of smokers are more likely to smoke themselves, making them more likely to die early.
Other social factors include declining social acceptance of smoking in general and the expansion of anti-smoking laws introduced to reduce harm from second-hand smoke in particular.
Professor Nick Hopkinson, another study author from Imperial’s National Heart and Lung Institute, said: ‘Most people already know that smoking is a health risk. “This suggests that over time, people are more likely to become socially isolated and lonely.”
āThese findings are another reason for the government to move forward with the policies needed to achieve its 2030 smoke-free goal. This includes taxation and raising the legal age for tobacco sales from 18 to 21.
‘Quiting smoking can be difficult, but the NHS has a number of great resources to help people get the help they need. These include: It includes free, proven tools and advice to help you.ā
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āThe relationship between smoking and current and future social isolation and loneliness: a 12-year follow-up study of older adults in the UKā by Philip et al. Lancet Community Health ā Europe.