Britons among 'most sleep-deprived' in the world, research shows

Adults in Britain are among the most sleep-deprived in the world, research suggests.

A study found that 37% of Britons feel they are not getting the right amount of sleep.

Out of 13 countries surveyed across the world, the UK ranks highest for people who feel they do not get sufficient sleep.

A total of 25% of Britons list getting a better night's sleep as a priority, while it is also one of the most common health ambitions - second to losing weight.

Many Britons are prioritising getting a better night's sleep Credit: PA

Aviva, publishers of the survey, found that people in India were the least likely to feel sleep-deprived.

Just 9% of those in the Asian country felt they weren't getting the right amount of hours - followed by China, Indonesia and Turkey.

Despite its siestas, 21% of people in Spain also believed they were not getting the 40 winks they need.

Joining the UK at the top of the list were Ireland, Canada and the USA.

Tiredness makes us less inclined to exercise, the study claims Credit: PA

With the clocks set to go back this weekend, Aviva also found that a lack of sleep impacts on the desire to exercise.

Forty-four percent of Brits described themselves as too tired to exercise, with women being more affected by men.

Shorter days with less light make exercise far less appealing, with 57% of women and 48% of men saying they find it more difficult to exercise in the darker months, according to the study.

Dr Doug Wright, Medical Director for Aviva UK Health, said the importance of getting a decent night's sleep should "never be underestimated".