CLEVELAND — There's a growing epidemic sweeping the nation that some doctors say is as bad for you as smoking.
It's loneliness -- and the levels are skyrocketing.
U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy says half of us adults experience measurable loneliness, but it's even greater among young adults.
Loneliness actually increases the risk of heart disease by 29 percent, your chance of suffering a stroke goes up 32 percent and among older adults it increases the risk of dementia by 50 percent.
The surgeon general says we really need to reconsider how we use technology.
"What we need to do is rebuild social infrastructure in our country. In-person matters, connecting online has its place and has its value, but it is not a substitute for in-person connection. We really need both," said Murthy.
The surgeon general says in terms of the risks that loneliness poses for premature death, it is comparable to smoking.
He also said we need to focus on community organizations and mobilizing the health sector to raise awareness.
EDITOR'S NOTE: The video above previously aired on 3News on Jan. 23, 2023.