According to latest research from Bupa UK Health Insurance women have been noted to become more stressed than men due to fears over their family’s well being and matters of finance.

The report states that nearly half of women polled stated that they felt stressed every day as opposed to four out of 10 men.

Dr Paula Franklin, deputy medical director for Bupa UK Health Insurance, said: "It's not so much the battle of the sexes - but the battle of the stresses. Women are certainly bearing the brunt of Britain's stress both at home and in the workplace, and the situation is being worsened by the impact of the credit crunch.

"At turbulent times like these, when stress levels are soaring, looking after your health and wellbeing must be a priority. For the one in two worried women, know your body and read the stress symptoms -take regular exercise, try to eat a healthy, balanced diet, reduce alcohol consumption and learn how to relax. Take positive action and ensure you don't become another stress statistic."