Hypochondria is a Major Headache for Health Care and Insurers
Hypochondria is a Major Headache for Health Care and Insurers #Hypochondria (also known as health anxiety or illness anxiety disorder) is a growing global problem that places a significant burden on #healthcare systems and society. Here is a summary of the key points: The problem: Hypochondria has a lifetime prevalence of around 5.7% and is increasing in many countries It leads to substantially increased healthcare utilization and costs due to frequent doctor visits, unnecessary tests, medications, etc. Annual per capita costs of hypochondria range from $857 to over $21,000 based on studies from the US, UK, Denmark and Sweden The total economic burden is likely underestimated as most studies only looked at direct costs, not indirect costs from lost productivity, absenteeism, etc. Causes of growth: Increasing general stress and anxiety levels in the population Wider access to medical information online leading to self-diagnosis and health fears More h