The NHS provides vital healthcare services to millions of people every year, but the cost of maintaining it continues to rise. From ambulance services to hospital stays and general practitioner (GP) visits, every aspect of the NHS requires funding, and lifestyle choices play a significant role in determining healthcare expenses.
According to NowPatient, an overnight hospital stay in the UK can cost up to £483 per night, excluding additional treatment or surgery costs. Reducing preventable health conditions through healthier lifestyle choices could save the NHS millions of pounds in the long run.
Medical accountancy firm BW Medical has identified five key lifestyle changes that can help reduce NHS expenditure while improving overall public health.
1. Quit Smoking and Vaping
Smoking-related hospital admissions in England increased by nearly 5% in 2022-23, reaching an estimated 408,700 cases. NHS statistics reveal that:
- 16% of hospital admissions for respiratory diseases were linked to smoking.
- 7% of cardiovascular disease cases were attributed to smoking.
- 8% of cancer-related hospital admissions were linked to smoking.
While the long-term effects of vaping remain uncertain, experts predict a potential surge in vaping-related health complications. By quitting smoking and vaping, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of chronic illnesses, ultimately decreasing hospital admissions and saving NHS resources.
2. Reduce Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol misuse remains a significant burden on the NHS. Between 2020 and 2021, there were:
- 342,795 hospital admissions caused solely by alcohol.
- 948,312 alcohol-related hospital admissions.
The estimated annual cost of alcohol-related treatments to the NHS is approximately £3.5 million. BW Medical recommends limiting alcohol consumption to less than 14 units per week to minimize health risks and reduce medical costs. Moderation not only benefits individual well-being but also alleviates pressure on healthcare services.
3. Maintain Good Oral Health
Although most adults pay for dental treatments, NHS dentists provide free care in specific cases, such as for children under 18. Dental health issues, particularly in young children, contribute significantly to NHS costs.
- Tooth decay-related extractions in children aged 0 to 19 years cost the NHS £40.7 million in 2022-23.
- Many dental issues are preventable with proper oral hygiene and dietary habits.
Brushing teeth twice daily, reducing sugar intake, and attending regular dental check-ups can help prevent tooth decay and minimize costly dental procedures.
4. Follow a Healthy Diet and Exercise Regularly
Obesity-related conditions place immense strain on NHS services. According to the Department of Health and Social Care:
- Obesity costs the NHS £6.5 billion annually.
- Many obesity-related cases are preventable with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Eating nutritious foods, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight not only enhance personal health but also reduce the likelihood of obesity-related diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Taking proactive steps towards a balanced diet and fitness can significantly cut NHS healthcare costs.
5. Manage Stress and Mental Health
Mental health issues are a growing concern in the UK, with stress being a major contributor to long-term health problems. According to Mental Health UK’s 2024 report:
- 91% of adults experienced extreme stress or pressure in the past year.
- The estimated cost of mental health conditions to the NHS is approximately £300 billion.
Taking steps to manage stress and support mental well-being can prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression from escalating. BW Medical suggests:
- Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation and mindfulness.
- Engaging in activities that bring joy and reduce stress.
- Seeking professional help or talking to loved ones about mental health struggles.
While the NHS provides exceptional care, its resources are not unlimited. Making conscious lifestyle changes can improve public health while reducing the financial burden on the healthcare system. By quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining oral hygiene, eating healthily, and managing stress, individuals can play a role in safeguarding the NHS for future generations.
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