Everyday habits that many of us take for granted can sometimes harm our health in the long run. While most people know that smoking and excessive drinking pose serious risks, some seemingly harmless practices might also have negative impacts. Dr Raj Arora, a UK-based general practitioner, has highlighted four such habits she avoids for the sake of her health—habits she frequently sees causing problems in her patients.
In a recent social media video, Dr Arora explained that these aren’t extreme behaviours but rather common actions that can lead to long-term health issues. “I see the consequences of certain habits every single day,” she said. “There are a few things I personally avoid, not because I’m perfect, but because I know what they can lead to in the long term. These habits are really common but can cause real harm.”
First on her list is smoking or vaping. Dr Arora points out that smoking is a well-known cause of cancer, while vaping, often marketed as a safer alternative, is not risk-free. Although vaping is widely used as a quitting aid, the NHS states that it is “not completely harmless,” with unknown long-term effects. Evidence shows vaping is less damaging than smoking but still carries potential health risks. For this reason, she advises non-smokers not to start vaping.
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Next, Dr Arora stresses the importance of attending all recommended health screenings, including breast and cervical cancer checks. These screenings can detect early signs of illness or even prevent cancer. “I would never skip them because having your screening done might just save your life,” she warns.
Cervical screenings are offered to individuals with a cervix aged 25 to 64 to spot high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) that could lead to cervical cancer. Mammograms typically begin at age 50 and can detect breast cancers too small to feel or see. Other screenings, such as abdominal aortic aneurysm checks for men over 65 and bowel cancer screenings from age 54, are also vital. Patients usually receive reminders from their GP when it’s time to schedule these tests.
Dr Arora also cautions against the widespread, often unnecessary use of supplements. While supplements are frequently promoted online as energy boosters or metabolism enhancers, taking them without confirmed deficiencies may do more harm than good. “It’s really important to know if you actually have a deficiency—do you need a supplement, and will it genuinely benefit your health? Otherwise, you could just be wasting money, or worse, causing side effects,” she warns.
The best way to determine nutrient needs is through a blood test, which can be arranged by your GP or done via at-home kits available at some pharmacies.
Finally, Dr Arora advises against relying on internet searches or AI tools like ChatGPT to self-diagnose symptoms. While online resources can offer general information, they are no replacement for the nuanced evaluation a qualified doctor provides. AI is useful for administrative tasks and improving healthcare efficiency, but it cannot replicate human clinical judgement.
She concludes, “Where your doctor is experienced and human, AI will never replace that. Using ChatGPT as a diagnostic tool or inputting your symptoms and hoping for the best is simply a no-go.”