Understanding Loneliness as a Preventive Health Priority Among Men: Findings From an Australian Population Survey

Abstract

Issue Addressed

Masculinity norms and risky behaviours are often identified as drivers of poorer health among men, and one underlying factor that is increasingly found to be important is loneliness. The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence of loneliness in Australian men and its relationship with preventive health capabilities.

Methods

A national cross-sectional survey of men aged 18 years and over (N = 1282) was conducted. Levels of loneliness (low, moderate, and severe) were stratified by socio-demographic and health status characteristics. Multivariable modelling was used to examine relationships between severe loneliness and prevention knowledge and attitudes, health literacy, and health empowerment.

Results

The prevalence of moderate and severe loneliness was 27.2% and 15.8%, respectively. Severe loneliness was mostly reported by men in middle adulthood, without a partner, of low socioeconomic status, working in sales or service occupations, or living with a disability or mental health condition. Men with severe loneliness were less likely to have positive attitudes towards preventive care, including colon cancer screening, visiting their general practitioner, blood pressure checks, skin checks, and prostate cancer screening. They also showed lower health literacy and lower health empowerment compared to others.

Conclusions

Loneliness at a moderate or severe level is prevalent among Australian men, with severe loneliness strongly related to important prerequisites for preventive health action.

So What?

The quality of men's relationships should be given higher priority in strategies to engage and support men to prevent disease and injury, and maintain wellbeing across the life course.