Loneliness can increase stroke risk by up to 56%, finds research

People who feel chronically lonely over long period of time at higher risk, finds first study of its kind

Loneliness may increase the risk of stroke by as much as 56%, according to research that experts say explains why the issue poses a major health threat worldwide.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said loneliness is among the most significant global health concerns, affecting every facet of health, wellbeing and development. The US surgeon general has warned that its mortality effects are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.