Aflac Survey Reveals Barriers and Trends in U.S. Preventive Health Care
The 2025 Wellness Matters Survey, conducted by Aflac, highlights significant challenges Americans face in preventive health care, noting that 90% of surveyed individuals delay checkups or screenings that could identify and treat serious illnesses early. Key barriers include fear of adverse diagnoses, embarrassment, inconvenience, logistical issues, and distrust of medical providers, impacting all generations but particularly millennials and Gen Z.
The survey found that 94% of Americans experience obstacles to obtaining timely preventive screenings such as pap smears, prostate exams, colonoscopies, mammograms, blood tests, skin cancer exams, and STD screenings. Younger adults, especially millennials and Gen Z, are the most likely demographic to avoid these screenings.
Despite awareness of the importance of preventive care, 65% of those surveyed only became proactive after a health scare. Interestingly, those who anticipate a cancer diagnosis tend to delay screenings more often, indicating a cognitive dissonance in health behavior.
Moreover, the study underscores the value of having a primary care physician (PCP), with nearly 20% of Americans lacking a regular PCP, a factor correlated with fewer preventive care appointments. Many younger adults rely on urgent care and emergency departments for health needs, which may result in higher costs and less preventive care.
Telehealth is gaining acceptance, particularly among millennials and Gen X, and there is growing interest in AI as a tool for health consultation, especially among Gen Z women.
Gender disparities are evident in preventive care behaviors and health confidence. Women under 60, particularly younger women, are more likely to skip screenings and report less confidence in managing their physical, mental, and financial health compared to men of the same age groups.
Ethnic groups such as African Americans and U.S. Hispanics demonstrate a strong communal approach to health, with higher motivation to attend screenings when encouraged by family or community. African Americans are notably more likely to be diagnosed during routine screenings or after encouragement from loved ones.
Family support plays a crucial role in promoting preventive care adherence, with many respondents citing spouses, partners, or parents as key health advocates. The survey suggests coordinated healthcare appointments and shared health priorities within families may improve preventive care follow-through.
The survey results provide insight for healthcare providers, insurers, and policymakers aiming to increase adherence to preventive care and screenings. Addressing logistical and emotional barriers, enhancing primary care access, leveraging technology, and fostering community and family engagement emerge as critical strategies.
Aflac, a leading supplemental health insurance provider, released this survey to inform stakeholders and promote health education and proactive care management among American adults. The survey reflects ongoing trends in health behavior, technology adoption, and demographic differences that impact insurance and healthcare markets.