HEALTH MATTERS
Article from BPT Website
(BPT) - Did you know 90% of Americans put off check-ups or recommended screenings that could help identify and treat serious illness early? Aflac's 2025 Wellness Matters Survey reveals what's making Americans hesitate to get wellness exams - and who avoids them most. Surprisingly, among Americans under 60, women were most likely to admit skipping their common recommended screenings: Gen Z women (68% versus 55% of Gen Z men); millennial women (63% versus 61% millennial men) and Gen X women (63% versus 54% Gen X men).
If you or a loved one are delaying taking care of your health, you're not alone - but your inaction could result in increased costs, worse health outcomes, or even a shorter lifespan. The good news is, you can take steps today to help safeguard your health.
Barriers to care
The Wellness Matters Survey found an alarming 94% of Americans face barriers to getting recommended screenings. Across all generations, Americans delay health care because going to the doctor isn't always easy - logistically or emotionally. Many people avoid appointments for practical reasons including cost, time and transportation, but emotional factors like fear of bad news or embarrassment also create obstacles:
* Nearly half of Americans (48%) face logistical barriers including conflicts with work hours and challenges taking time off for appointments.
* Nearly 40% have canceled or not scheduled a doctor's appointment because the wait time was too long.
* Americans have avoided these common screenings:* pap smear (33%)
Top Reasons Why Most Americans Avoid Getting Their Check-ups