- New global research reveals one in two people (49%) have avoided addressing a health concern, despite four in five (82%) agreeing that opening up can support their health
- A new series of films from Bupa explores inspiring real-life health stories from across the globe, bringing to life the benefits of talking about health
- Head of Clinical Operations at Bupa Global, Dr Mohamed Maan, also shares his top tips for talking about health with others
Today Bupa has unveiled Health Stories, a global movement dedicated to inspiring more open, honest conversations about physical and mental health. The drive comes in response to new global research which demonstrates that one in two people (49%) have avoided addressing a health concern – of which 39% did so because they didn’t think it was serious or were unsure if they needed a healthcare professional, and a quarter (24%) because of embarrassment or stigma.
The research also revealed that sharing health stories can have a positive impact – a huge four in five people (82%) believe that talking about health experiences can support physical and mental health. Of those who had shared a health concern with someone other than a healthcare professional, 41% reported feeling less anxious and 32% reported making lifestyle changes as a result. Moreover, one in two (53%) who had avoided a health concern said it only made them worry more, while over a third (31%) felt their health worsen when they kept it to themselves.
“That first moment when someone shares a health story can be so powerful,” said Dr Mohamed Maan, Head of Clinical Operations, Bupa Global. “Hearing how another person has managed a health condition can make you feel so many things – connected, empowered, supported, hopeful, a sense of relief.
“Talking about health not only benefits the person sharing their story but also those who they share with. It can support mental and physical wellbeing, inspire healthy habits, and encourage people to seek advice from a healthcare professional, which can lead to earlier diagnosis, treatment and better health outcomes.”
To help bring this concept of sharing to life, Bupa has released a series of powerful short films showcasing the real stories of inspiring individuals from around the world, with the ambition of encouraging others to talk about health.
Featuring the mental health story of Black Ferns player Ruby Tui, alongside others who have shared stories of endometriosis, Crohn’s disease, breast cancer, limb difference, and ADHD, the film explores how being open about health has positively impacted lives. The film captures the courage, vulnerability, and strength that comes from sharing health experiences, and the ripple effect it can have on others.
Ruby Tui, current Black Fern #235, 2020 Olympic gold medallist, and 2021 World Cup winner, who speaks candidly about her mental health as part of Health Stories, said: “Through the simple act of sharing, we can open ourselves up to different perspectives, and empower ourselves to find solutions. I hope this campaign from Bupa sheds light on the importance of our individual health and wellness journeys and inspires more people to make their health a priority that they talk about openly and honestly.”
Fiona Bosman, Global Brand Director at Bupa, added: “Through Health Stories, we want to highlight the benefits of sharing health experiences and break down taboos that are preventing people from talking about health. No matter what the concern, people should feel empowered to get the care and support they need – and a simple conversation can help spark that.”
Visit Health Stories for more information about the platform, to watch the film, and to read Dr Maan’s tips for starting conversations about health.
About the Research
Mortar Research carried out a survey targeting 6,052 respondents in the UK, Australia and Spain. The sample was nationally representative of age, gender, and region. The survey asked respondents about their health concerns if they had any, and who they can talk to about it between 7th - 12th March 2025.
