Research indicates that Britons are tending to their cars more diligently than their own health. While nearly two-thirds of individuals aged 35 to 54 consistently schedule an annual MOT for their vehicles, less than half have checked their cholesterol within the last five years despite the fact that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the UK.
Nearly 50% of the 2,000 people surveyed confessed to never having undergone a cholesterol test. TV doctor Hilary Jones remarked, “We wouldn’t ignore flashing dashboard alerts in our cars, yet many overlook their body’s warning signs. Midlife is a critical period for monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels, even in the absence of symptoms.”
The survey, conducted by supplement brand Healthspan, highlighted regional disparities: people in the north-west were least likely to have had their cholesterol tested, with almost 60% never having done so. Londoners were the most diligent, while Scots showed the most anxiety regarding heart disease. In contrast, individuals in the south-east were primarily concerned with memory issues and cognitive decline, whereas those in Yorkshire and Humber often felt older than their chronological age.
The study also unveiled common concerns during midlife. For women, the appearance of wrinkles and weight gain in the midsection were more worrying than heart health. In men, issues such as erectile dysfunction and developing a beer belly took precedence over concerns about heart disease. Additionally, one in five Britons reported that loneliness was a bigger concern than illness.
Chartered Psychologist Dr Sheena Kumar explains: “Midlife triggers a unique blend of concerns — from changes in appearance to hidden health threats. Just like scheduling an MOT for a car, regular health checks provide both peace of mind and a layer of protection.”
Registered nutritionist Rob Hobson comments: “It’s intriguing how appearance remains the chief concern, even though long-term threats like heart disease loom larger. Being slim and active is not always an indicator of good health, which underscores the importance of knowing your health metrics.”
Cholesterol, often called the silent killer, is essential for hormones and cell membranes, but too much ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol can build up in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Rob, who was shocked to be diagnosed with high cholesterol earlier this year despite being fit and health-conscious, added: “You can’t assume you’re fine just because you look healthy. Cholesterol isn’t only about what you cut out – it’s about what you add in. Oats, beans, nuts, olive oil and plant sterols actively help lower cholesterol.”
