NEW research into UK music festivals – such as Creamfields which returns to Warrington again from August 21-24 – has revealed a hidden health challenge that is seldom spoken about.
The research, by global healthcare company Abbott, reveals that 65 per cent of those who regularly attend festivals say they have left early due to health issues at least once.
One in 10 have stopped attending festivals altogether.
This reflects a growing national health trend. Among chronic conditions, diabetes stands out — not only due to its rising prevalence, but also because of the unique daily management it requires, especially in unpredictable environments like festivals.
As the number of people living with diabetes in the UK climbs beyond 5.8 million, Abbott’s data shows over 200,000 more people with diabetes now rely on insulin than just three years ago.
The research also highlights a perception gap. While almost half of people without chronic conditions believe a major medical emergency is the biggest concern when attending a festival, only 14 per cent of those living with a chronic condition agree1 For them, the real challenge is the invisible, ongoing effort of managing their health condition in a high-energy environment where attendees can walk up to 30,000 steps a day on just four to five hours of sleep.
Nearly 90 per cent of those living with a chronic condition experience stress at a festival because of their condition, driven by factors like lack of places to sit and rest, worries about staying hydrated, and the overall mental load of constantly planning and managing their health.
“We often see people walking up to 30,000 steps a day which can be very wearing on the body,” says Warrington-based Lesley Mills, consultant nurse and festival medical services volunteer lead. “For someone managing a chronic condition, the impact is even greater. The key is preparation – know your body, plan ahead, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Adding to the pressure, 13 per cent don’t share their health challenges to avoid being a burden and 10 actively hide it due to fear of judgment.
“Living with a chronic condition doesn’t have to mean missing out, but it’s completely natural to feel anxious,” says Vanessa Haydock, who lives with Type 1 diabetes and uses FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitoring technology to get real-time insights into how food, activity, or insulin impacts her glucose. “I always bring a GP letter and back-up snacks and medical supplies. I also share my glucose levels with friends using Abbott’s LibreLinkUp5 app, a support tool of my continuous glucose monitoring system.”
Despite this, the research reveals a significant preparation gap. Only eight per cent of attendees living with a chronic condition bring a GP letter for their medication, and under a third bring adequate personal medication or health tech while attending.
“With a bit of smart planning and support, people living with chronic conditions can show up, feel confident and make lasting memories at festivals,” concludes Vanessa.
“Festivals should be a place of joy and freedom. At Abbott, we’re committed to helping people with diabetes and other chronic conditions live their fullest lives — whether that’s at home, at work, or dancing in a field with friends. This research highlights the importance of understanding the invisible challenges people with chronic conditions face and the need for better support in high-energy environments,” says Julia Hammac, general manager of Abbott’s diabetes care business in the UK and Ireland.
