A new survey commissioned by Abbott and conducted by Kantar among 4,000 U.S. adults has uncovered a significant disconnect between what Americans believe about chronic disease prevention and how confident they feel managing their own health. While 74% of respondents said chronic diseases are preventable, only 25% reported feeling confident in their ability to care for their health.
The findings paint a picture of a population overwhelmed by the complexity and cost of healthcare. Sixty-five percent said they had delayed or avoided health actions due to cost or complexity, 46% find health guidance confusing, and 58% cite conflicting advice as a barrier. While 96% recognized the role of nutrition in prevention, only 30% described their diet as “very healthy.” Generationally, millennials reported feeling healthiest at 65% but expressed the greatest chronic disease concerns, while Gen Z uses health apps and AI tools at a 69% rate.
Among parents surveyed, 94% believe their children’s habits will affect lifelong health, and 71% worry about chronic disease development in their kids. Abbott highlighted its Future Well Communities initiative, including programs such as Healthy Food Rx and Future Well Kids, as part of its response to closing gaps in health confidence and access.