Health Experts Concerned by Money-Saving Trend
Health experts are concerned that people are risking their health in order to save money by delaying dental and eye care appointments.
Experts have noted a growing trend, with surveys and studies showing an increase in the number of people putting off going to see a dentist or an optician to try and save money.
A recent study, which involved more than 1,000 people, revealed that almost 1 in 5 people are visiting their dentist less frequently, with 17 percent admitting to attending eye appointments less often. The research was carried out by HPI, an independent research company.
The study also revealed other many-saving habits, including haggling for better prices, re-assessing priorities and changing eating habits, as healthier foods are usually more expensive.
Juliet Strachan, author of the study, said that the results of the poll showed that hard economic times are affecting many different areas of people’s lives, from their health and diet, to their social lives and spending patterns.
Strachan said that the most worrying aspect of the findings was that people are willing to sacrifice their health to save money. However, this approach is likely to be counterproductive in the long-term, as missing routine appointments increases the risk of complex problems, which are much more expensive to treat.
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