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The following is a summary of “Factors associated with unvoiced concerns of patients attributed to embarrassment, modesty or a fear of being judged,” published in the April 2025 issue of BMC Primary Care by Hurtaud et al. 

Some patients withhold concerns due to embarrassment or fear, affecting the quality of general practitioner (GP) care. 

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to identify factors behind unvoiced concerns in GP consultations, often driven by embarrassment or fear of judgment. 

They conducted a cross-sectional observational study from December 2023 to January 2024 using an ad hoc questionnaire completed by consenting adults. Factors with P < 0.20 in univariable analysis were included in a multivariable logistic regression model. 

The results showed 2,104 participants (mean age 43.7 ± 15.9 years; 73% women) were included, and 680 (32.3%, 95% CI 30.3–34.3) reported unvoiced concerns due to embarrassment, modesty, or fear of judgment. Main motives were sexual or gender topics (15%) and psychological issues (14%). Female sex (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.5, 95% CI 1.2–1.9; P=0.0001) and third-level education (aOR 1.3, 95% CI 1.05–1.7; P=0.02) increased risk. Heterosexuality (aOR 0.7, 95% CI 0.5–0.98; P=0.04) and trust in the GP (aOR 0.6, 95% CI 0.5–0.7; P<0.0001) lowered it. About 47% said reassurance of confidentiality would help, and 78% preferred the GP to address the topic first. 

Investigators suggested that simple tools during consultations helped address sensitive issues and created a more comfortable environment. They emphasized the importance of encouraging patients to speak freely. 

Source: bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-025-02804-2