Most Americans say they’re committed to improving their health, but a new survey suggests they may be more familiar with their entertainment preferences than their vital health stats. According to Questhealth.com, 92% of U.S. adults report taking steps to prepare for their future health. However, the findings reveal critical gaps in awareness and accessibility, particularly among younger generations.
“For too long, Americans have been passive recipients of their healthcare and health information,” says Richard Adams, senior vice president and general manager, consumer at Quest Diagnostics. “As the survey shows, many Americans are motivated to take charge of their health, but they may be experiencing barriers to accessing care through traditional channels and are unsure of where to go for support.”
The survey, conducted among nearly 2,100 U.S. adults, shows a disconnect between intention and action. For instance, while 40% of respondents can recall their streaming service passwords, only 19% know their cholesterol levels—a key indicator of heart disease risk.
Similarly, many tend to overlook family medical history, a crucial factor in assessing hereditary health risks. Among Gen Z adults ages 18 to 28, just 31% know their family health history, compared to 56% who remember their streaming credentials.
Social media impact
In addition, social media has a major influence on health behaviours, particularly among younger Americans. One in four U.S. adults now turns to influencers for health advice, and one in three has sought medical testing or care after seeing someone share a personal health story online. Among Gen Z and Millennial respondents, over half report taking action based on health content they encountered on platforms like TikTok or Instagram.
Barriers to care
More than one in three adults experienced obstacles accessing healthcare in the past year, with the most common challenges including long appointment wait times, insurance uncertainty, and concerns about the cost of lab tests. These barriers are most pronounced among younger people: only 12% of Boomers report such difficulties, compared to 30% of Gen X, 53% of Millennials, and a striking 62% of Gen Z.
Despite these challenges, Americans remain focused on adopting healthier lifestyles. As many as 70% rate their current health as good or excellent, and many prioritise sleep, hydration, and regular exercise as core wellness habits. Preventive care is also gaining ground, with almost half of adults saying they prioritise getting annual blood work and screenings.
Still, awareness of healthcare options remains limited. Nearly two-thirds of respondents did not know that they can purchase lab tests without a doctor’s visit. Platforms like Questhealth.com aim to address this gap by providing easy access to physician-reviewed diagnostic testing for conditions ranging from heart disease and hormonal imbalance to sexually transmitted infections and chronic illnesses.