Dr. Tsubokura's Radiation Lecture Vol.84

Author: Masaharu Tsubokura

Editors: Akihiko Ozaki M.D., Yuki Senoo

167. The role of mutual support in a community for protecting people’s health

When considering your health, it is crucial to understand not only the risk of radiation exposure, but also lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and obesity. Moreover, it is essential to consider other factors that affect your health and take control of your health in a well-balanced manner.

Among various health risk factors, you may often encounter topics related to smoking, eating habits, and exercise, and you may naturally be more conscious about controlling these factors. However, loneliness has a more significant impact on your health than the factors mentioned above.

The definition of loneliness is not limited to living by yourself or with relatives. Previous studies have revealed that connections with a variety of communities, including alumni associations, work colleagues, and friends with whom you share the same hobbies, are essential to maintaining your health. In other words, involvement with various societies and specific groups of people who care about you and express sympathies with each other contributes to achieving a healthy life. Indeed, the United Kingdom has even established a Ministry of Loneliness to tackle t