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February 2026 - Health

A recent study has revealed that around six in ten (59%) UK adults regularly use AI tools, such as ChatGPT, to self-diagnose their health issues. Significantly, almost a quarter (24%) of users say that they feel more comfortable using AI compared to having a face-to-face appointment with a health professional.

Published in January 2026, the nationwide survey conducted by Confused.com Life Insurance examined how UK adults utilise AI for health-related enquiries. The study looked at various aspects of use, including the types of health queries searched, the perceived impact of AI responses on users’ health and well-being, and the advantages of using AI for self-diagnosis. It also analysed demographic differences between younger and older adults. A notable finding showed that searches for “what is my illness” surged by 85% since January 2025, while searches for “what are the symptoms for” increased by one-third (33%) during the same period.

When asked about the health-related queries they typically ask of AI, the top three were symptom checks (63%), medication side effects or conditions (both 50%), and lifestyle/wellbeing questions including areas of diet, fitness and stress management (50%). Additionally, the study also found that 1 in 5 (20%) UK adults use AI for mental health support and coping strategies. Among those who use AI for self-diagnosis, two-fifths (41%) reported that it helped their health condition ‘somewhat’ while one in ten (11%) stated that using AI had helped them ‘a great deal’.

Regarding the advantages of using AI, two in five (42%) felt that it provided a quicker alternative to waiting for a doctor's appointment. The benefits of feeling more at ease with AI, compared to a face-to-face appointment, were felt most prominently by younger adults. Over two-fifths (39%) of 18-24 year olds reported feeling more comfortable researching their symptoms using AI than discussing them in person. In fact, the data shows that this age group is the leading user of AI for self-diagnosis, with more than eight in ten (85%) regularly using it for this purpose. Meanwhile, among older adults (65+), AI use for self-diagnosis was far lower at just over a third (35%), although over half (54%) reported using it regularly to check symptoms. 

Tom Vaughan, life insurance expert at Confused.com, cautions that while AI can be useful for initial research and gaining an understanding of a condition, people should still consult a GP or pharmacist for an accurate diagnosis and peace of mind.

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