According to a national health poll conducted by ukactive, 85% of UK adults would prefer the next government to prioritise long-term prevention of obesity and other health conditions rather than investing in weight-loss drugs. This preference is particularly strong among those aged 55 and over, with 93% favouring prevention strategies.
The survey also revealed that:
- 62% of respondents believe the main political parties are not doing enough to address the mental health crisis in the UK.
- Given a choice by their doctor, 61% of Brits would opt to receive treatment for an injury or health condition at a gym, pool, or leisure centre rather than a hospital.
- There is a clear public demand for preventative health solutions that benefit both physical and mental wellbeing, as well as reduce pressure on the NHS.
The poll highlights the potential of the physical activity sector in addressing health challenges. Physical activity can help prevent over 20 chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and various cancers, potentially generating more than £5.2 billion in healthcare savings annually.
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, emphasised that the survey results indicate that sustainable solutions supporting active and healthy lifestyles are preferred over medication-based approaches to tackle the nation’s physical and mental health crisis. He called for the next government to work with the fitness and leisure sector to create long-term plans that support national health and boost the economy.
This comes as a coalition of over 200 organisations from the sport, recreation, and physical activity sector has come together to address inactivity, and inequalities, and engage with the new government. The coalition stresses the importance of maintaining funding for grassroots sport and physical activity and the need for a long-term strategy to increase participation.
