THE HILL | A little-discussed condition raises the risk of premature death by up to 50 percent—making it a health hazard at least as significant as smoking and alcohol and more so than obesity. Yet many medical professionals haven’t heard about it, and the public remains largely in the dark.

We’re talking about social isolation, a national public health crisis.

Characterized by a tiny support network and minimal interpersonal contact, it’s a circumstance often associated with older adults experiencing progressive loss. Children move away, a spouse dies, and physical deterioration makes it harder to engage in social activities. Seniors in rural areas are particularly susceptible. Geographic isolation and lack of public transportation combine to keep them alone.

Read more at The Hill: https://thehill.com/opinion/healthcare/399123-loneliness-kills-a-new-public-health-crisis-and-what-we-can-do-about-it