Society: Worry makes the world go round

Britons fail to take practical steps to improve their own lives - such as exercising - worrying instead about matters which are largely beyond their control, according to a MORI poll published today. "It's interesting to note that many people - young and old - don't worry about the things they can do something about to improve their lives," said a spokeswoman for Norwich Union, which commissioned the survey of 1,742 people.

Young people (15-to-34-year-olds) worry more than the older generation about having a serious illness, being attacked or robbed and being a victim of burglary.