Loneliness and Social Isolation in Individuals with Acute Myocardial Infarction and Takotsubo Syndrome: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Background/objectives: Loneliness and social isolation are considered significant social determinants of myocardial infarction (MI) or Takotsubo syndrome (TS). However, research on these factors in MI populations is highly heterogeneous, and evidence regarding TS is sparse. The present scoping review aimed at mapping the extent and breadth of the literature on loneliness and social isolation in individuals with MI or TS.

Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and JBI methodology, we conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO/PsycINFO, supplemented by a manual search, for studies published up to 25 June 2024. Primary research studies on loneliness and/or social isolation in individuals with MI or TS were included based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, with title-abstract and full-text screening.

Results: Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria, all of which focused on MI. Studies were categorized into three key concepts: loneliness (k = 5), social isolation (k = 7), and both loneliness and social isolation (k = 4). The findings showed that MI impacts subjective experiences and interpersonal relationships, often leading to identity shifts and increased social isolation and loneliness. These factors have been shown to be associated with severe physical health outcomes, including heightened mortality risk; however, these associations appear to be highly mediated by unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. Notably, no studies on TS met the inclusion criteria, highlighting a significant research gap. Additionally, no study explored clinical interventions targeting social isolation or loneliness.

Conclusions: MI has a profound impact on social and emotional well-being, with loneliness and social isolation contributing to severe health outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the impact of these factors on individuals with TS.