New PAGB research highlights importance of self-care for easy-to-treat conditions

The census found that 56% of people visit their GP for a UTI and 27% for thrush

New research from PAGB has revealed that 22% of people do not think of self-care as their first option for easy-to-treat conditions.

This Self-Care Week (18 to 24 November), the consumer healthcare association has highlighted the importance of empowering patients.

The Self-Care Census 2024 reviewed real-world data from 4,000 adults in the UK to uncover the latest consumer trends in self-treatable conditions.

It found that 56% of respondents visit their GP for a urinary tract infection, 27% for thrush, 20% for acne and 20% for conjunctivitis.

Despite 72% of respondents saying they were more likely to self-care as a result of seeing news coverage or campaign materials, PAGB found that only 18% recalled seeing a news story or campaign promoting self-care in the previous year, with this rising to 29% for those aged 18 to 24 years.

The research also revealed age-related behavioural differences, with 23% of those 25 to 34 years saying they would try to book a GP appointment for a minor ailment or injury they could treat themselves, compared to just 9% of those aged 65 or older.

Those aged 18 to 24 years were far more likely to request a GP appointment to access free prescription medicines, with 52% saying this influenced their decision, compared to 6% of those over 60.

PAGB’s Chief Executive Officer, Michelle Riddalls, said: “Although awareness of the benefits of self-care, for both consumers and the health service, has increased as a result of our educational outreach and activities such as Self-Care Week there is still significant room for improvement.”