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A fear of being diagnosed with dementia is putting many people in the UK off reporting their symptoms to a doctor, according to a new report.

Research carried out by the Alzheimer's Society has found dementia is the most feared health condition in the UK, with almost 62 percent of those surveyed saying they felt a diagnosis would mean their life was over.

As such, 56 percent of people are putting off seeking a dementia diagnosis for up to a year or more, meaning they could be missing out on receiving the treatment, information and support they need to live well for longer.

Common fears associated with dementia include the loss of independence, having to give up driving, losing their friends or no longer being the same person. Many of these assumptions are misconceptions, however, as was the commonly-expressed view that dementia is an inevitable part of the ageing process.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society, said: "Many feel that a dementia diagnosis means someone is immediately incapable of living a normal life, while myths and misunderstandings continue to contribute to the stigma and isolation that many people will feel."