Britons are putting off health checks such as dental appointments and eye tests to save money during the recession, according to new research.
An online survey by insurance company Aviva found that just over 40 per cent of Brits avoid regular dental and eye check-ups to because of the costs involved, with many resorting to DIY treatment instead.
Nearly half (46 per cent) of those polled admitted to ignoring cracked teeth and lost fillings and 4 per said they had removed a painful tooth themselves.
The research also revealed that 13 per cent of respondents had carried out DIY repairs on their broken glasses to avoid bills, while a further 3 per cent said they had resorted to wearing someone else's contact lenses or dentures .
Dr Hugh Laing, chief medical officer at Aviva UK Health, said: "Avoiding medical treatment is a false economy - not to mention a risky prescription."
"Regular health checks can help identify issues before they become more serious or costly."
