Self-diagnostics: A positive result for DIY health

Latest research from MINTEL finds that the explosion of health problems in the UK and a changing doctor-patient relationship has lead to an impressive 40% increase in sales of self-diagnostics since 2000. With the market now valued at a substantial £68 million, this rapid growth is expected to continue and sales are forecast to rise by a further 38% by 2010 to some £94 million. ” Obesity is a huge and increasing problem in the UK today, with levels of Type II diabetes rising sharply and this, along with the growing prevalence and awareness of physiological conditions, has created a real need for self-diagnostics, ” comments Claire Birks, consumer analyst at MINTEL.