The cost of critical illness cover is increasing and the list of conditions which will result in a pay-out is shortening, as insurers react to a surge in claims plus medical advances. But do you really need a policy? Rupert Jones reports.

Taking control of your health makes financial sense, writes Neasa MacErlean.

Policies that pay out a lump sum if you need certain types of surgery or have a serious health problem are shooting up in price. Rupert Jones reports.

If you're overweight then expect to pile on the pounds when it comes to paying all sorts of premiums. Patrick Collinson reports.

Juliet Shedden reports on the rising costs of oral health and why we are having to take out payment plans to fill the price gap.

Suzi Pritchard, who suffers from a heart condition, knows only too well the health hazards of travelling the world without suitable cover.