Eighteen million Brits not being honest with GP - LifeSearch

Average Brit tells 33 lies a week

Adam Saville
clock • 2 min read

Study explores how withholding information from doctor could be putting our health at risk

Close to 18 million people in the UK, it is estimated, are lying to their doctor about the amount of alcohol they drink, whether they smoke and illegal drug usage, research by LifeSearch has revealed. The survey of 2004 adults also found that we are a nation that is not being honest about the severity of our symptoms, therefore putting our health at risk. Collectively we tell the doctor at least 10 million lies a week, the data suggested. However, the research also revealed that mental health (14%) and physical health (10%) can worsen, or treatment (7%) and diagnosis (9%) delayed - ev...

To continue reading this article...

Join COVER for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, key trend analysis and industry insights.
  • Stay on top of the latest developments around health and wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and the cost of living crisis.
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletter.
  • Members only access to monthly programme 'The COVER Review'
  • Be the first to hear about our CPD accredited events and awards programmes.

Join now

 

Already a Cover member?

Login

More on Adviser / Broking

80% of insurance professionals oppose FCA CPD changes

80% of insurance professionals oppose FCA CPD changes

CII research

Cameron Roberts
clock 03 July 2025 • 1 min read
How shifting UK demographics are changing the protection conversation

How shifting UK demographics are changing the protection conversation

“Advisers must adopt a consultative, personalised approach”

Toni Smith
clock 02 July 2025 • 4 min read
Lee Hartley to step down as Fairstone CEO

Lee Hartley to step down as Fairstone CEO

Replacement to be named in September

Jenna Brown
clock 01 July 2025 • 1 min read