Pharmacists Key To Avoiding Holiday Health Hell

Main Category: Pharmacy / Pharmacist
Article Date: 19 Jun 2008 - 8:00 PDT

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New research released by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain reveals 81% of holiday-makers have experienced common ailments that could have been avoided or more effectively treated if they had stocked up on basic healthcare needs at a pharmacy before leaving.

Despite experiencing sunburn, insect bites, headache, upset stomach or diarrhoea while abroad, most people spend about £95 on new swimming costumes, clothes and make-up, but less than £20 on basic healthcare products like sun cream, insect repellent and condoms - all readily available in pharmacies.

David Pruce, the Society's Director of Practice and Quality Improvement, said: "It's understandable that people going on holiday don't think about their healthcare needs, but travelling abroad can expose people to health risks that don't pose the same threat at home.

Pharmacists are uniquely placed to advise the public about the dangers and provide useful tips and access to healthcare products (for both prevention and symptom relief) on how to keep the family healthy on holiday.

"Pharmacies are a fantastic one-stop-shop resource - aside from being able to buy holiday healthcare items, people can access free, expert advice, without having to make an appointment."

Notes

Survey

Research was carried out online by YouGov from 29 May - 2 June 2008. The total sample size was 2,197 adults. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).

The survey shows that 53% of Brits abroad have suffered from sunburn (49% women versus 57% men), a third (31%) experienced a bout of diarrhoea, 43% have suffered with an upset stomach, and almost one in five (17%) have experienced cold and flu symptoms and motion sickness. Over half have endured the irritation of insect bites, whilst a poorly 18% have experienced a vomiting bug and one in 20 have had infected wounds while abroad.

The research reveals that seven out of 10 people have bought medication abroad to treat their condition or illness, and:

- One in 10 18-25 year olds claim to have guessed the dosage
- One in 10 said they did not fully understand the healthcare professional they spoke to
- 20% of people bought medication off the shelf without seeking professional advice
- 28% bought medication abroad as they thought they recognised the packaging
- One in 20 bought medication without professional advice as they were in a hurry
- Almost one in 10 (8%) admitted that they were unaware of the possible side-effects of the medication they bought
- One in 12 people took medication without understanding the possible side-effects
- One in 20 didn't finish the course of medication once they returned home.

Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain

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