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

Bain Capital completes Jensten Group acquisition

Bain Capital completes Jensten Group acquisition

Plans for expansion

Jaskeet Briah
clock 05 December 2025 • 1 min read
COVER Women in Protection and Health Awards 2026: Nominees announced

COVER Women in Protection and Health Awards 2026: Nominees announced

Nearly 1,000 nominations

COVER
clock 04 December 2025 • 1 min read
Claims and Underwriting: In conversation with a claimant

Claims and Underwriting: In conversation with a claimant

Joe Nattrass discusses his journey

Cameron Roberts
clock 04 December 2025 • 1 min read