Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Germany Can Be Healthy – and Wants More: Why a “Health” School Subject Could Be Key to a Long, Self-Determined Life

At the start of the year, many people resolve to do more for their health – and the willingness to act has never been greater. A representative YouGov survey commissioned by HanseMerkur Health Insurance shows that 75 percent of people in Germany are convinced that health is not a given, but requires active effort. More than half (52 percent) already pay conscious attention to their well-being, while still seeing room for improvement. Another 21 percent have not yet been active but are motivated to change.

These figures clearly demonstrate that the desire to take responsibility for a long, healthy, and self-determined life is firmly rooted in society – giving new momentum to prevention and health awareness.

Knowledge as the Key to Better Health

Motivation alone, however, is not enough. Anyone who wants to actively improve their health needs sound knowledge. Currently, only about half of respondents (51 percent) feel sufficiently informed to take responsibility for their own health. In addition, many underestimate the impact of lifestyle choices: only 49 percent believe that their lifestyle has a greater influence on life expectancy than genetics – despite clear scientific evidence to the contrary.

It is therefore hardly surprising that 71 percent of respondents support the introduction of a dedicated “Health” school subject, aimed at teaching prevention, mental resilience, and healthy living skills from an early age.

“Our survey clearly shows that Germany wants to be healthy and understands that this requires action,” says Eberhard Sautter, CEO of HanseMerkur. “Health is not a gift – it is a responsibility, and at the same time an investment in quality of life and longevity.”

Staying Healthy – for Yourself and Those You Love

The motivation for a healthy lifestyle is largely long-term in nature. Fifty-two percent of respondents want to grow old in good health – a core principle of the longevity concept. Forty-one percent say they pay attention to their health because they can feel the positive effects in their daily lives. More than one third (34 percent) want to remain vital and capable primarily for their family and friends.

Healthy Habits Are Common – but Barriers Remain

In everyday life, many people already focus on health-promoting habits. Not smoking (62 percent), getting enough sleep (55 percent), regular physical activity (54 percent), and a balanced diet (50 percent) are top priorities. Notable gender differences emerge: women more frequently integrate mental health services and preventive check-ups into their routines, while men are more likely to prioritize sufficient sleep.

For both genders, the strongest motivation to live healthily comes from their personal environment. Family, friends, or partners are cited by 47 percent as the most important motivators – well ahead of physicians and medical professionals.

Despite strong health awareness, barriers remain. Lack of motivation (23 percent), time constraints (20 percent), and financial reasons (16 percent) are the most commonly cited obstacles. This makes one thing clear: health literacy must become more accessible, more understandable, and be taught from an early age.