One in five Brits claim they are too busy to look after their own health – with many skipping eye checks, dental appointments and GP visits.
A poll of 2,000 adults found 73 per cent have missed or delayed a health appointment of some kind.
Of those, 18 per cent have put off booking an eye check, while 14 per cent have skipped things like blood pressure tests – all thanks to hectic schedules.
Work commitments (33 per cent), childcare duties (11 per cent), and stress over the admin or hassle (12 per cent) were among other reasons people have missed out.
The research was commissioned by Specsavers as part of Glaucoma Awareness Week, to shine a spotlight on the condition often dubbed the ‘silent thief of sight’.
A spokesperson said: “When you feel like there’s nothing wrong, it’s all too easy to push check-ups to the bottom of your to-do list.
“Life gets hectic, and we all have a lot on our plates, but your health, including your eyesight, should never be left on the back burner.
“Glaucoma can develop slowly over time without any obvious symptoms, meaning many people don’t realise there’s a problem until irreversible damage has already been done.
“That’s why regular eye check-ups are so important – they’re not just about examining your vision, they’re a vital part of catching conditions like glaucoma early.
“It's also why you shouldn’t wait to book these only when you see symptoms – but make sure you go regularly and it could help you in the long run.”
The research revealed other areas adults skip over because they’ve been short of time included getting a full night’s sleep (31 per cent) or drinking enough water (27 per cent).
While 22 per cent have been so locked-in at work they’ve not taken a decent screen break or moved around enough to get out of their seat.
But 34 per cent admitted a health scare or definite symptom would motivate them to book a check-up they had been putting off.
Of those who don’t prioritise their own health, 28 per cent put their children’s needs first, while 19 per cent confess they put housework at the top of the priorities list.
Although 42 per cent think easier booking systems would help them make their own health more of a focus.
While 29 per cent simply need more time in the day, according to the OnePoll.com figures.
But 32 per cent believe health check-ups are more and more important as you get older, while 18 per cent confessed they know the need for them, they’re just too easy to forget.
Specsavers’ spokesperson added: “It’s easy to let health checks slide when you’re juggling a busy schedule, but looking after your eyesight is something you simply can’t afford to ignore.
“A quick and simple eye check every couple of years - or more often if you’re at higher risk - could protect you from serious long-term consequences.
“Your vision is one of your most precious senses, and it deserves your attention.”
TOP 20 THINGS ADULTS HAVE MISSED OR NOT DONE, DUE TO LACK OF TIME:
1. A full night’s sleep
2. Drinking enough water
3. Going for a walk outdoors
4. Meal prepping healthy food
5. Taking breaks from screens or sitting for long periods
6. Getting a proper breakfast
7. Booking a dental check-up
8. Stretching or mobility exercises
9. A gym session
10. Booking an eye test
11. Meditation or mindfulness practice
12. Booking a GP appointment
13. Trying a fitness class or PT session
14. Booking a health screening (e.g. smear test, blood pressure check)
15. Having a skin check or mole check
16. Getting a hearing test
17. Doing a breast or testicular self-exam
18. Attending a therapy or counselling session
19. Downloading a health tracker app
20. Signing up to a GP
