Results of Siemens Healthineers Turkey 3rd Health Literacy Survey Announced
The 3rd Health Literacy Survey, conducted in partnership with Siemens Healthineers Turkey and FutureBright Group, highlights the transformation in individuals' health perceptions and daily habits.
Carried out in collaboration with Siemens Healthineers Turkey and FutureBright Group, the 3rd Health Literacy Survey reveals that the percentage of people in Turkey who feel healthy has risen to 76 percent, while showing that more than half of the population waits for symptoms before visiting a doctor.
Scope and Details of the Research
Siemens Healthineers Turkey shared the results of the 3rd Health Literacy Survey, prepared in cooperation with FutureBright Group to measure the public's health perception, habits, and level of knowledge. Conducted through face-to-face interviews with 600 people aged 18-65 across Turkey between April and May 2026, the survey results were announced under the umbrella of the 'Bilmende Fayda Var' platform.
Health Perception and Lifestyle Changes
According to the survey data, the rate of those who consider themselves healthy rose to 76 percent. This rate had been recorded as 71 percent in 2022 and 64 percent in 2024. Despite the increase in positive perception, the percentage of those stating they never exercise rose to 39 percent, smoking remained high at 46.5 percent, and half of the participants described themselves as stressed.
Increasing Trend in Chronic Diseases
Chronic disease ownership across the general population reached 23 percent. Evaluations determined that the incidence of high blood pressure surged from 4 percent to 10.3 percent, while the rate of diabetes climbed from 4 percent to 8 percent.
Doctor Visitation Habits and Check-Ups
While 52.7 percent of participants stated they only go for a health check when a complaint arises, the rate of those consulting a doctor for routine check-ups remained at 23.5 percent. Among those delaying check-ups, 32 percent cited the fear of discovering a disease as the reason. Meanwhile, the rate of individuals getting regular check-ups increased from 22 percent to 35 percent.
Signal Literacy and Women's Health
While 66 percent of participants stated they do not know the symptoms of stroke and 45 percent were unaware that Alzheimer's can be diagnosed early, the proportion of those who could distinguish heart attack symptoms was 59 percent. On the other hand, the mammogram screening rate among women over 30 rose from 23 percent to 54 percent over two years.
The Relationship Between Artificial Intelligence and Health
One of the striking findings of the research was observed in artificial intelligence usage; 40 percent of participants stated that they had AI interpret their laboratory test results. Among this group, 76 percent stated they felt a sense of control over their health, while 67 percent experienced confusion and 62 percent felt anxiety.