Disability, Loneliness and Health in the UK: cross-sectional survey

Abstract Background Research has suggested that exposure to loneliness can have a powerful detrimental impact on health, including mental health. Addressing socially determined health inequity requires understanding of the situation marginalized or vulnerable groups. People with disability are increasingly being recognized as one such group. Little population-based research addressed association between and among working age adults without disability. Methods Secondary analysis data collected in waves 8 9 Understanding Society, UK’s main annual household panel study. Results Rates substantial were 25.4% (95%CI 23.5–27.3%) persistent (disability at W8 W9), 15.4% (13.3–17.5%) onset W9 only), 12.3% (10.1–14.5%) offset 6.9% (6.5–7.3%) no Exposure was positively associated incidence (GHQ-12) prevalence (SF-12 Mental) problems, but not physical problems Physical). Disability status appeared moderate difference group increasing greater levels loneliness. Conclusion Loneliness may be an important determinant poorer UK. rates significantly higher than non-disabled population. The strength is for people