Philips study shows lack of commitment to health management in UK

Philips has published a report highlighting a number of poor attitudes and behaviours towards health among people in the UK.

The Philips Picture of Health Report, which polled more than 2,000 members of the British public and 400 healthcare professionals, show a gap between what Britons know they should be doing to prevent illness and what they are doing to actively manage their health. 

It indicated that 76 percent of British adults believe that establishing good habits is key to preventing poor health, but only 45 percent say they are actively working to manage their health.

Moreover, 80 percent agreed that despite the continued focus on health, wellness and nutrition, the UK is becoming less healthy as a nation, with 66 percent of those who do not actively manage their own health believing they would benefit from doing so.

The UK is faced with an ageing population, with one in six people aged over 65, a proportion that is set to rise to one in four by 2050. This trend is coinciding with a rise in chronic and lifestyle-related diseases.

Sean Hughes, vice-president for design within Philips' healthcare division, said: "At Philips, we see data and digital innovation as the means to transform healthcare and we want to welcome in the era of connected care and a healthier nation."