Using mice as subjects, the study revealed that loneliness resulted in a decrease in bone quality and mineral density in male mice, but not in female mice

Loneliness has negative effects on men’s mental and bone health, according to a recent study conducted at the Maine Health Institute for Research in Scarborough.

Using mice as subjects, the study revealed that loneliness resulted in a decrease in bone quality and mineral density in male mice, but not in female mice.

In the study procedure, adult mice were kept in social isolation (one mouse per cage) or grouped housing (four mice per cage) for a period of four weeks.

Dr Rebecca Mountain, the lead researcher of the study, highlighted that women might not experience the same physical consequences of loneliness.

Previous clinical studies have shown that psychosocial stresses, and the ensuing mental health issues, are significant risk factors for osteoporosis and fracture, which disproportionately afflict older persons, she said.

However, additional research is needed to delve deeper into this topic. The findings offer crucial insights into the effects of isolation on bone health and hold important clinical implications, particularly in the light of the long-term health impacts arising from the increase in social isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic.

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