A comprehensive study by the American Cancer Society indicates that individuals living alone face heightened mortality risks from various causes, notably among younger adults and those with pre-existing health conditions.
ATLANTA, October 27, 2026 — A pivotal study by researchers from the American Cancer Society (ACS) has revealed a concerning correlation between living alone and increased mortality risk from multiple health issues in the United States, particularly impacting individuals aged 18 to 64. Published today in the International Journal of Epidemiology, the study underscores the alarming prevalence of suicide across all age groups and highlights colorectal cancer as a significant contributor to mortality among those living alone.
Trends in Living Arrangements
The report documents a dramatic rise in the number of adults living alone in the U.S., increasing from 9.4 million, or 7.6% of the population, in 1967 to 38.1 million, representing 14.8% of the population in 2023. This demographic shift encompasses individuals across various age groups and genders, although it is particularly notable among older adults. As societal attitudes toward living arrangements evolve, this trend raises critical public health questions about the implications for health outcomes and the need for supportive interventions.
Study Design and Key Findings
In this comprehensive study, researchers analyzed data from 598,023 adults aged 18 and older, utilizing information from the National Health Interview Survey and the National Death Index, covering a time span from 1998 to 2018. With a follow-up period of approximately 22 years, the study aimed to calculate hazard ratios to assess the relationship between living alone and mortality from various causes. The findings indicate a stark disparity in risk: adults living alone exhibited a 22% higher risk of all-cause mortality compared to those living with others, with a pronounced effect among younger adults.
For individuals aged 18 to 64, the study revealed a 58% increased risk of death by suicide, alongside a 41% increased risk for heart disease and a 34% heightened risk for diabetes. Moreover, the analysis documented a 27% increase in mortality risk from colorectal cancer, with additional elevated risks associated with cerebrovascular disease (23%), accidents (17%), and all injuries (27%). Among older adults aged 65 and above, living alone was linked to a staggering 103% increase in suicide risk, a 28% increase for hypertension, and an 11% increase for heart disease, as well as a 16% rise in all injuries.
Understanding Contributing Factors
The study also highlighted various sociodemographic, lifestyle, and healthcare access factors that play a significant role in the observed mortality differences between individuals living alone and those living with others. Notably, the analysis indicated that 57.1% of the difference in all-cause mortality among younger adults (ages 18-64) could be explained by these factors, with this figure rising to 85.4% for those aged 65 and older. This insight emphasizes the necessity of considering underlying health conditions, access to healthcare, and social support systems when evaluating the risks associated with living alone.
Policy Implications and Recommendations
Dr. Hyunjung Lee, principal scientist of cancer disparity research at ACS and lead author of the study, emphasized the urgent need for targeted interventions to address the heightened mortality risk among individuals living alone. “Policy and clinical practice efforts are needed to identify modifiable risk factors that contribute to this higher risk of death among those living alone,” Dr. Lee asserted. She highlighted the importance of chronic disease management, preventive care, injury prevention strategies, and mental health screening as critical areas for intervention.
Understanding these risk factors is essential for identifying individuals who may benefit most from tailored support services and health interventions. As the population of adults living alone continues to rise, it becomes increasingly important for healthcare providers and policymakers to proactively address these health risks through targeted strategies.
Contributors and Future Research Directions
In addition to Dr. Lee, the study was co-authored by Dr. Jordan Baeker Bispo, Dr. Ahmedin Jemal, and senior author Dr. Farhad Islami. Their collaborative efforts shed light on an increasingly relevant public health issue, prompting discussions about the need for comprehensive support systems for individuals living alone to mitigate associated health risks.
As additional research emerges, it will be imperative to explore the underlying causes of increased mortality risk among this demographic, as well as to develop and implement effective interventions aimed at improving health outcomes for those living alone. By addressing these issues, society can better support individuals in navigating the challenges associated with solitary living and enhance their overall well-being.
