Halitophobia

Halitophobics wrongly believe that they have bad breath, and are concerned that others will notice. Their irrational fear may result in behaviours such as only speaking to people by telephone, or refusing to leave their house. It has caused marriage breakdown and at least one suicide.

About 1% of the population suffers from halitophobia. Possibly, subclinical halitophobia is more common; the sales of mouthwash have doubled in 10 years to £72 million.