U.S. study finds being lonely more harmful for diabetics than smoking, diet

The Tulane University study claims extended isolation has a stronger influence than depression, smoking, physical activity and diet on diabetics. Researchers noted that lonely diabetics are 11% to 26% more prone to cardiovascular disease as opposed to the general population. The findings suggest that asking patients with diabetes about loneliness should become part of standard assessment, with referral of those affected to mental health services.