U.S. adults who experience high levels of social isolation have a 143% higher risk of dying from any cause compared to those who are less isolated, even if they have no prior heart disease.

We analyzed the available evidence and found that adults without heart disease who experience high levels of social isolation may face a significantly higher risk of dying from any cause. Specifically, one assertion shows that U.S. adults with high social isolation had a 143% higher risk of death compared to those who were less isolated, even when they had no prior heart disease [1]. This finding is supported by 59 studies or assertions, and none of the evidence we reviewed contradicts it. Social isolation here means having few social connections, little contact with friends or family, and feeling disconnected from others — not just being alone physically, but lacking meaningful relationships. The data we reviewed suggests this lack of connection may be tied to outcomes like earlier death, even in people who are otherwise healthy. We don’t know exactly why this link exists, but possible factors could include stress, reduced physical activity, or less access to care — though none of these were confirmed in the evidence we examined. What we’ve found so far leans toward a strong association between social isolation and increased risk of death, even without heart disease. But we also recognize that this is one set of findings, and we’re still learning how deeply these patterns connect to other health behaviors or biological changes. The evidence doesn’t prove isolation causes death, but it does show a clear pattern worth paying attention to. In everyday terms: staying connected with people — even in small ways — may matter more for your long-term health than you think, even if you’re otherwise healthy.