Ananova:

Four out of ten Britons would be prepared to give up sex if it meant they could live to be 100, according to a new poll.

Almost half of the women asked in the Bupa survey said they would take up celibacy to reach the milestone .

However, only 31% of men said they would be prepared to sacrifice nookie for a telegram from the Queen.

Many people - 39% - would be prepared to give up eating and drinking whatever they wanted to ensure they lived to 100, while 42% would give up travel.

But there were some things people would not give up - 94% would not be ready to give up the company of friends and family for a long life, and 74% would not sacrifice money.

The Ipsos MORI research of more than 1,000 adults reveals that if we had a choice, we only aspire to live on average to 85.

Unsurprisingly, young and old people were divided on when old age begins. The 16-24 year olds see it as starting at 61, while those 75 and over said it began at 71.

But nearly half agreed scientists should continue to keep trying to prolong people's life spans.

When asked about the main advantages of science being able to extend life, 16% said to be there for family and friends and 14% to see grandchildren grow up.

Dr Andrew Vallance-Owen, Bupa's medical director, said: "Britain is facing an ageing time bomb with major challenges presented by retirement, the desire to live longer and the increasing burden of caring for older people."