Women's lifespans are growing more slowly than men's, a study found yesterday.

Average life expectancy is still rising for both sexes, but the rate of increase is slowing across the western world – particularly for women.

The research suggests this could be down to more women working, feeling stressed and drinking or smoking. And men are now less likely to work in dangerous and polluted industries such as coal mining.

Average life expectancy is still rising for both sexes, but the rate of increase is slowing across the western world – particularly for women (Stock image)

The spread of obesity and dementia are also thought to be factors. The research, published by the Longevity Science Panel, appears to debunk previous theories that public sector cuts brought in under David Cameron were to blame for the slowdown in life expectancy growth – as the trend is also seen in countries with no austerity, such as Germany.

Panel chairman Dame Karen Dunnell urged the Government to research the reasons behind the slowdown. The report was based on mortality records which stretched back to the 1960s.

Figures show British men can expect to live to 79 and women to 82.