Aflac Survey Finds 9 in 10 Americans Delay Preventive Health Screenings

A new survey from Aflac reveals that 90 percent of Americans have delayed checkups or health screenings that could potentially save their lives, citing fear, embarrassment and logistical barriers as leading reasons for putting off preventive care.

Released during National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, Aflac’s third annual Wellness Matters Survey highlights the troubling trend of Americans postponing essential care despite knowing its importance. The study, conducted by Kantar Profiles among 2,000 U.S. adults, points to a growing divide between people’s health intentions and behaviors.

According to the findings, 94 percent of Americans face obstacles to receiving timely preventive care, including long wait times, work schedule conflicts and emotional discomfort. Gen Z respondents, particularly women, reported high levels of anxiety about doctor visits, with nearly a third citing distrust or personal embarrassment.

“Many avoid going to the doctor instead of doing what they can to avoid a health scare or detect a problem early,” said Tom Morey, Aflac’s senior vice president and chief actuary, who personally experienced a serious health crisis in his 20s. “It starts with making preventive care a priority and taking steps toward establishing a trusted relationship with a primary care doctor.”

The survey found that nearly half of Americans rely on urgent care or emergency rooms for medical needs, with younger generations less likely to have a regular primary care provider. Additionally, nearly 40 percent said they have canceled or skipped appointments due to long wait times, and 65 percent admitted they only prioritized their health after experiencing a scare.

Commonly delayed screenings include pap smears, prostate exams, colonoscopies, mammograms and skin cancer exams. Millennials and Gen Z were most likely to report avoiding screenings, with more than 60 percent of each group skipping at least one.

Despite growing interest in telehealth and even AI-based health consultations, the report suggests that social influence plays a key role in health decisions. Hispanic and African American respondents were particularly responsive to encouragement from family members, and many diagnosed with cancer said it was a loved one who urged them to get checked.

“Having a ‘we are in this together’ approach to our health may lead to better outcomes for Americans, their families and loved ones,” Morey added. “Our survey shows that Americans who book health appointments at a specific time of year are twice as likely to follow through.”

The full 2025 Aflac Wellness Matters Survey is available at Aflac.com/WellnessMatters, including resources for taking charge of personal and family health care.

Aflac is the leading provider of supplemental health insurance in the United States and has been recognized among the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for 19 consecutive years.