Women happier at work and in marriage but worry 'a lot' about health and money

Women are happier at work and in marriage than they were 40 years ago but many worry more about health, money and their appearance, a BBC poll has found.

Around 86% said they would rather be female than male in 2016, compared to 56% in 1947, according to a survey by Radio Four's Woman's Hour.

The poll also found that there are more women in employment in 2016 than in 1951, with 60% working today compared to 31% then.

Women are also more positive about marriage in 2016, with 42% saying that they gave up equal amounts of freedom as their male partner, compared to 25% of all respondents, female and male, in 1951.

But a large number said they worry "a lot" about issues including health, money and their appearance, with those aged between 25 and 34 most likely to be anxious.

The biggest worry for women aged 25 to 34 is health, finances came second and 46% of those polled said they are considering having cosmetic surgery.

The poll will be discussed in a special 70th anniversary programme of Woman's Hour on Monday.

Woman's Hour editor Alice Feinstein said: "It's fascinating to see the results of this candid poll and hear women's views on family, work and relationships, and it's intriguing to work out what's changed and what's remained the same since Woman's Hour started 70 years ago."