Just a third of adults would reveal ahealth conditionto a new partner within the first month of dating, new research has found. A survey of 2,000 Brits discovered one in 20 would only mention a health issue early in a relationshipif it became 'necessary' to do so.

What's more, according to the research, respondents would be more inclined to share health concernswith a friend over a family member first. Incontinence topped the list of issues people were most likely to keep to themselves, whether from friends, family or colleagues (22%), followed by depression (19%) and IBS (18%).

The research, commissioned by AXA Health as part of its Cover That Cares campaign, also revealed that a quarter of respondents would feel uncomfortable disclosing a cancer diagnosis to a new partner.

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The study found that despite being hesitant to open up, 88% of adults surveyed believe being talking about health issues with loved ones is important, as keeping relatives informed allows them to offer support and makes planning easier. It was also suggested that relatives deserve to be kept in the loop.

For many, mental health continues to be a challenging subject, with a significant number feeling uncomfortable discussing depression (39%) and anxiety (35%) with those closest to them. Those experiencing fertility difficulties also struggle to speak out (30%).

Heather Smith, CEO of AXA Health, said: "Being able to talk about health conditions – whether it is to your family, your partner or your colleagues – is so important. Sharing worries and having someone listen to your concerns can help feel like a weight has been lifted and can make you feel less alone."

Alarmingly, 14% of those with health issues have even avoided pursuing a relationship altogether because of their condition A fear of being judged (51%) was cited as the most common reason for not disclosing health issues, followed by embarrassment (35%) and fear of rejection (29%). However, 15% who avoided telling their partner went on to regret not being honest..

For those who did open up to a partner, 39% felt a sense of relief. The OnePoll study also found that their other half was glad they had been honest (29%), while 27% reacted in a calm manner.

The research revealed that 43% of people felt supported and 35% felt reassured after disclosing their health issues to a loved one. A quarter of partners even took it upon themselves to research the condition in order to better understand it, offer the right support and show empathy.

Heather Smith added: "For some people it can be difficult to open up. People don't want to be seen as a burden but by keeping quiet about their symptoms or conditions they can't benefit from a listening ear and the comfort of being able to speak openly without judgement.

"At AXA Health, we are here to listen, support and care for our members at every stage of their healthcare journey."

TOP 30 HEALTH ISSUES BRITS WOULD HIDE FROM OTHERS:

Incontinence

Depression

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Erectile Dysfunction

Chronic infections such as UTI’s (Urinary Tract Infections)

Panic attacks

HPV virus

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Hair loss

Work related stress

Neurodivergence (e.g. ADHD, OCD, Autism)

Crohn’s Disease

PMS or PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)

Cancer

Eczema

Endometriosis

Heart condition

Psoriasis

Chronic Fatigue /ME

Chronic pain condition

Joint issues

Migraines

Acne or rosacea

Asthma

Coeliac Disease

Fibromyalgia

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Hearing loss

Type 1 Diabetes

Vision impairment