Researchers analyzed data from more than 50,000 people to examine the relationship between smoking and loneliness. Participants were assessed based on how isolated they felt from others and whether they felt they lacked friends.
The findings showed that smokers reported higher levels of loneliness than people who did not smoke, regardless of their age or gender.
Researchers also found that feelings of loneliness among smokers increased consistently over time.
The study suggested that the effect may become more pronounced among older people, indicating that smoking could have consequences for mental and social well-being in addition to its well-established physical health risks.
Researchers said restrictions on smoking in public places may also make it more difficult for smokers to participate in certain social activities, potentially contributing to feelings of isolation.
Previous research has found a link between loneliness, unhappiness and negative health outcomes. The World Health Organization has described loneliness and social isolation as major health concerns.
The WHO has also highlighted research suggesting that the health impact of loneliness can be comparable to that associated with smoking around 15 cigarettes a day.
The researchers said further work is needed to better understand the relationship between smoking and loneliness and determine the mechanisms behind the association.
