Families don't have time to go to the doctors

UK families are suffering from life-style related illness because we just don’t have time to deal with them.

Skin conditions such as eczema and acne are increasing and unhealthy lifestyle issues such as smoking, stress and obesity are contributing.

It seems patients aren’t dealing with their problems though, 67 per cent of Brits are affected by these conditions but more than one in ten families do not seek advice.

More than a quarter of families admitted they hoped their issue would go away by itself and 9 per cent stated they they just didn’t have time to waste sitting in doctors surgeries.

The findings come from a study looking at how the UK’s culture impacts on attitudes towards our health as Britain has the longest working hours and the fastest rising rate of obesity.

New trends in treating health problems now see 28 per cent of sufferers turning to high street pharmacists for advice. Our GP still remains the most popular source of information, but 27 per cent of us are now being diagnosed and treated over the internet.

The net trend is likely to increase, with families finding online pharmacies cheaper are more convenient.

BAFTA-winning ‘Embarrassing Bodies’, Doctor Christian Jessen, advises, “Whether it’s through a GP, an online surgery or a web-based pharmacy, the important thing is that people seek advice and treatment from a qualified practitioner. Early diagnosis is key as most illnesses are treatable and I urge everyone not to suffer in silence.”

Superintendant pharmacist at ABC Online, Mike Ritson, said:“Whether it’s buying home testing kits or dietary supplements, the internet offers people with families a way around potential time constraints they may face, whilst also saving them money.”

“Online surgeries and pharmacies offer fast, convenient and reliable healthcare options, but people must take care to look out for the Royal Pharmaceutical Society logo which is visible on the homepage of all legitimate online pharmacies.”