2026-04-24 13:04:59
Brits are avoiding trips to the doctor out of embarrassment, with many fearing bad news or not being taken seriously.
A poll of 2,000 adults found common complaints like sore throats (74 per cent), headaches (77 per cent) and stomach aches (66 per cent) are frequently ignored rather than checked by a professional.
Worryingly, more than a third (36 per cent) have not seen their General Practitioner (GP) in the past year, while only 55 per cent have visited a dentist in that time.
The study, commissioned by personalised health service Do Health from Voy, highlights a nation taking a reactive approach to wellbeing, with 44 per cent admitting they only act once something feels wrong.
Just 12 per cent described themselves as proactive about their health, while 22 per cent admitted delaying medical advice about an issue that later turned out to be serious.
Dr Rangan Chatterjee warned: “Delaying action can mean missing the window for early intervention; while symptoms may seem harmless in the initial stages, they could become something more severe if not seen to.
“The reluctance and embarrassment people feel can prevent them from seeking support. Ignoring symptoms out of discomfort can put well-being at risk and contribute to unnecessary hardship.
“We should try to address this stigma openly by encouraging people to talk about their health concerns and reducing embarrassment.
“Lasting health is built before intervention is needed – but often, people only act once problems escalate.”
When faced with symptoms, 31 per cent turn to the internet first, while nearly a third (30 per cent) have paid for private healthcare, largely because it is quicker (73 per cent) and easier to secure an appointment (51 per cent).
Meanwhile, 22 per cent said they would even trust artificial intelligence (AI) to diagnose a health issue.
Dr Chatterjee added: “The NHS is geared towards tackling problems once they arise but it’s time to flip the script and start thinking about our health much earlier.
“There is a wealth of information we can get from some very simple tests – which means, you can proactively take control of your health immediately and increase your chances of living a long and healthy life.
“Your body can show warning signs for conditions long before they become a problem, so acting more proactively about our health will help detect these warning signs before they escalate.
“For example, Type 2 diabetes starts five to 10 years before you get a diagnosis, and Alzheimer’s starts in the body 20 years before you actually get a diagnosis. Why should people have to wait until they are really sick to access the very best healthcare?
“By the time the system steps in, it’s often too late, which is why we established our offering and aim to encourage earlier awareness of bodily changes and potential health risks.
“We conduct regular testing of over 50 biomarkers, carried out three times a year, to monitor and assess biological age, focusing on the 11 most significant indicators of health.
“This method evaluates both an individual’s strengths and areas that may require improvement. A personalised 52-week coaching plan is created to suit specific circumstances and varying lifestyles.
“By addressing nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management, possible health concerns can be addressed at the earliest point of development.”
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