Nicola Elliott
When it comes to health worries, Brits are a nation of quiet worriers and generous caregivers—often more concerned about everyone else’s wellbeing than their own.
Research from Bupa Health Clinics found that over three-quarters of UK adults (78%) admit to having ongoing health worries, with weight and mental health topping the list. Yet, three in four say they’ll still prioritise their family’s health over their own this year.
It’s a familiar British paradox: we’ll put our partner’s check-up on the calendar, remind our parents to take their pills, and drive our kids to football practice—then ignore our own aching backs and rising blood pressure.
According to the data, not exercising enough (20%), back problems (13%), diet (14%), blood pressure (10%), and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes (10%) remain common issues. But the group most likely to brush these off? Those aged 45 to 55—many of whom are caught in the middle, caring for both children and ageing parents.
| Rank | Health Concern | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Weight | |
| 2 | Mental health | |
| 3 | Not enough exercise | |
| 4 | Physical fitness | |
| 5 | Unhealthy diet | |
| 6 | Back problems | |
| 7 | Dental health | |
| 8 | Joint problems | |
| 9 | Chronic conditions (e.g. diabetes) | |
| 10 | Blood pressure |
Dr Samantha Wild, GP and Women’s Health Clinical Lead at Bupa Health Clinics, says it’s time for a shift in mindset.
“We know that early diagnosis and access to treatment can save lives,” said Dr Wild. “It’s therefore important that we prioritise our own health as well as others, making sure we don’t put concerns on hold and seek help when we need it, rather than waiting until symptoms get more serious.”
She adds that the start of a new year is an ideal opportunity to break bad habits and face health worries head-on.
“The start of the year is a good time to get any health concerns checked and take action to manage long-term health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease,” she said. “Taking control of your health shouldn’t be something that just happens in January… taking steps to lead a healthier lifestyle and making your health part of your long-term routine is essential.”
But despite the rising tide of concern, a worrying trend is emerging: more than one in 10 people wouldn’t speak to anyone if they had a health issue. Instead, they’d turn to search engines for self-diagnosis.
And when it comes to mental wellbeing, only 9% of adults say they plan to talk more openly about it this year—despite it being one of the nation’s top health worries.
Dr Wild says seasonal factors don’t help. “The longer, darker winter months have a greater impact on people’s mental health with less daylight, sunshine and opportunity to get outside,” she explained. “I was concerned to see how many people are worried about their mental health…
Exercising and following a healthy diet are good places to start, along with getting enough sleep and speaking to a friend or family member, as well as a medical professional, about how you’re feeling.”
Still, there’s hope on the horizon. Nearly one in five adults (19%) are planning to take proactive steps to improve their wellbeing, with 28% aiming to become more physically active and 24% determined to eat better.
Dr Wild believes small, steady changes are key: “We see many people who come into our health clinics for a health assessment in January with intentions to make changes for a month, such as giving up meat or alcohol,” she said.
“The reality is that going back to your previous habits after a short time can undo all the health benefits you’ve gained. I usually recommend that people make small sustainable changes to their lifestyle, which they can keep up all year round.”
The takeaway? Whether it’s a check-up you’ve been putting off or that gym membership collecting dust, the message is clear—your health worries won’t wait for you.
