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An opinion poll published today by BMI Healthcare, the leading provider of independent healthcare, has shown that one third of people in Britain are worried about suffering from heart disease (32%) or a stroke (30%), but only 5% of them are considering visiting their GP to see if they are eligible for tests for individual illnesses. 4% of people are considering having a private health assessment – where a doctor or specialist nurse would conduct tests to see if they are at risk of developing certain illnesses.

The results of the public survey, conducted by ComRes, also reveal:

• 41% of women are worried about suffering from breast cancer in the future. This compares to 32% of women who are worried about encountering cervical cancer and 29% of all men who are worried about suffering from prostate cancer in the future.
• Broadly speaking, women are more likely to be worried about suffering from illness in the future, than men.

“The results show that people in the UK have a number of health concerns,” commented Professor Duncan Empey, FRCP Group Medical Director for BMI Healthcare.

“For those concerned about their health, appropriate Health screening can help to identify disease and health risk issues in their early stages and provides time to explore relevant lifestyle habits”.

BMI Intelligent Health Assessments can be tailored to individuals and includes quality time with a specialist health assessment doctor or nurse to discuss any personal health concerns. Following the consultation and results, a full health report accompanied by lifestyle advice and recommendations are provided.

“After an indulgent Christmas and New Year, a health assessment can give a detailed understanding of both health and lifestyle before resolutions are embarked upon,” said Dr Johan Alberts, Programme Director of BMI Intelligent Health.

“With an emphasis on prevention, our health assessments take into account the best available clinical evidence and are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. There are a range of different assessment options available, each designed to give helpful and constructive guidance on lifestyle changes, many of which traditionally begin in the New Year.”

In questions on New Year Resolutions the poll found that Brits are keeping to their traditional New Year’s resolutions and will be hitting the gym in their millions in the battle of the bulge. 37% of people are resolving to do more exercise and 36% plan to lose weight in the New Year.

People who are planning to lose weight are aiming to lose an average of 2 ½ stones (34.9lb), but surprisingly show little difference between the amount of weight men and women wish to lose – with women wanting to lose an average of 35.5lbs and men wanting to lose 34lbs.

Of all people who want to lose weight in the New Year those aged 35-44 want to lose the most weight, with women aged 35-44 wanting to lose an average of 51.6lbs (over 3 ½ stone) and men in the same age category wanting to lose an average of 41lbs (almost 3 stone).

If you are interested in the benefits of health assessments and the range of services available at BMI Healthcare Hospitals visit www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/health-screening for more information.