The ‘Social Smoking’ Myth Goes Up in Smoke After New Research
What Happened
A large study involving more than 50,000 people across 15 European countries found that smokers were generally lonelier than non-smokers and experienced greater increases in loneliness over time. Researchers tracked participants over two years using the UCLA loneliness scale, which measures feelings of isolation, exclusion and lack of companionship.
Key Takeaways
Researchers say the findings challenge the long-held perception that smoking is a social activity. The study suggests smoking may harm psychosocial health as well as physical health, potentially contributing to social isolation and loneliness. Experts believe smoking-related illnesses, reduced mobility and social restrictions around smoking may play a role.