Social separation's potential risk for elevated blood pressure in females
University of British Columbia's study uncovers a hidden link between loneliness and blood pressure in women versus men.
By investigating the social lives of over 28,000 adults aged between 45 and 85, researchers discovered that for women, social isolation can take a toll on their heart health, particularly increasing the risk of hypertension. Women who live alone, partake in only a handful of social activities, or maintain a smaller social network of fewer than 85 contacts are likelier to suffer from high blood pressure.
Interestingly, the picture is quite different for men – isolation proves to be protective for their heart health! Single men living with others, boasting vast social networks, exhibited the highest risk of hypertension. Men less connected, residing alone, and leading smaller social lives, however, demonstrated a lower risk of high blood pressure.
The study's principal investigator, Annalijn Conklin, an assistant professor in the faculty of pharmaceutical sciences at UBC and researcher with the Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, explained the findings:
"Women, unlike men, cannot afford to skip social engagements if they want to keep their hearts healthy. The link between social isolation and hypertension in women is so pronounced, it's comparable to the harm induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory use, excessive salt intake, pollution, or weight gain."
This groundbreaking research uncovered a significant risk factor for heart disease or stroke in women, underscoring the importance of maintaining social connections to safeguard one's health and life.
Whether it's meeting in-person or connecting via technology, it's crucial for women to fortify their social lives to safeguard their hearts. It's a warning sign flashing bright and clear – prioritize your social connections to protect yourself!
Keep in mind that social isolation can have a profound impact on overall health, with chronic loneliness affecting various health dimensions, including inflammation levels, sleep patterns, immune function, and blood pressure[3]. While the study under consideration does not explore the exact mechanisms behind the observed gender differences, it brings to light the need for further research into understanding the intersection between gender, social connections, and cardiovascular health.
- The findings of the University of British Columbia's study suggest that maintaining social connections is essential for women's heart health, as chronic loneliness can increase the risk of hypertension in females.
- The significance of this research lies in its identification of a potential risk factor for heart disease or stroke in women, highlighting the importance of paying attention to mental-and-women's health within the broader context of health-and-wellness, particularly in relation to science and cardiovascular health.
