WORKERS are putting their health at risk by not finding enough time to keep fit and even cancelling doctors' appointments because of the UK's long hours culture, according to a new report.

A survey of 2,500 adults by insurance firm More Than showed that one in eight had "stored up" ailments to avoid making more than one visit to their GP, while many had sought health advice from friends and family.

The report warned that "workaholic" Britons were compromising their health and fitness by putting work commitment first.

The number of people joining a gym surges by over 10 per cent in January, but good intentions are soon forgotten when work takes over, the report said.

Fatigue and work commitments were cited as reasons for neglecting a workout, according to the study.

Mike Bowman, head of insurance at More Than Business said: "At a time when healthy eating and exercise is high on the government's agenda, these findings don't bode well for our health or make good business sense, especially when 10 per cent of workers openly admit to being resentful that work takes precedence over health.

"It is a well-known fact that regular exercise and good general health helps combat stress, making individuals happier and more productive at work.

"Sole traders and small business owners are the most vulnerable sector of the British workforce." Tweet