Warning as Brits lacking 'vital' health information as many don't know what it means to be 'healthy' | The Sun
BRITS have been urged to pay attention to their health – as many don't have vital information relating to their wellbeing.
New research has revealed that many adults are unable to identify key metrics for looking after themselves.
This includes blood types, body mass index (BMI) and heart rate.
A study of 2,000 adults found that just 37 per cent are very confident they could name their own blood type, while only 24 per cent know what their BMI is.
And only 23 per cent know what their resting heart rate should be – which for adults, can be anything from 60 beats per minute (BPM) to 100bpm.
When it comes to identifying organs within the body, 63 per cent reckon they could point out where the heart and brain is located.
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But only 22 per cent could pinpoint the gall bladder and just 20 per cent could show where the spleen is.
To put the findings to the test, residents in Manchester were quizzed on whether they could spot the correct organ, while others were asked about what blood types were real or fake.
Dr Chun Tang, medical director from private healthcare provider Pall Mall Medical, which commissioned the research, said: “It’s important we all try to have a good understanding of what it means to be healthy.
“Having knowledge about health allows people to make good choices when it comes to diet, lifestyle and be aware of what to look out for when things might go wrong.
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“Our health is one of the most important things we have to look after, and it should be a priority for all of us."
The survey also found just 19 per cent of those polled are completely confident they manage their health well.
But a third are now less likely to call their GP regarding their health since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Not wanting to overwhelm the NHS, worrying about waiting lists and not thinking their issue is serious enough are the main reasons people put off calling a professional.
What organs can people identify?
The poll also revealed what organs Brits could identify.
1. Heart – 63 per cent
2. Brain – 63 per cent
3. Lungs – 60 per cent
4. Stomach – 59 per cent
5. Rectum – 55 per cent
6. Reproductive organs – 52 per cent
7. Kidneys – 50 per cent
8. Bladder – 48 per cent
9. Liver – 43 per cent
10. Appendix – 38 per cent
Waiting for health test resultswere also one of the most stressful scenarios for adults – ahead of their wedding day and the birth of a child.
Worryingly, women are far more likely than men to call their doctors if they spot a sign of a possible health risk.
In fact, only 50 per cent of men compared to 63 per cent of women would call their doctor if they spotted a sign of cancer, according to the OnePoll stats.
Women were also more likely to call for a doctor on virtually all health problems, including broken bones, lung problems and mental health issues.
Dr Tang at Pall Mall Medical added: “It’s worrying so many people feel they aren’t able to reach out for professional advice when they could have a serious health issue.
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“Everyone should have access to the best possible healthcare and not having to worry about the implications that might have on the service they are seeking out.
“Having confidence in your own health can set you up for life and takes a worry off your shoulders.”
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