MOST Scots don't realise there's a link between booze and cancer, according to a new survey.

But they are more aware than anyone else in Britain that lifestyles can increase the risks of being struck down by the killer disease.

New research by the World Cancer Research Fund has revealed high levels of ignorance surrounding lifestyles and the nation's biggest killer.

More than half of Scots had no idea that alcohol can trigger cancer although they were bettered informed than the rest of the UK of the dangers posed by smoking, obesity and over exposure to the sun.

Two out of five Scots admitted they had no idea that a bad diet could increase their chances of developing cancer while 43% knew nothing of the dangers posed by obesity.

Across Britain, only a third knew of the links with booze and unhealthy eating. And the age group most ignorant of the alcohol danger was the one most at risk - the over 55s.

Dr Greg Martin, of the WCRF, said: "It really is a shame that so many people are not aware enough about how they can reduce their cancer risk.

"The fact that diet, weight and physical activity are closely link to cancer has been well known in the science community for many years.

"But unfortunately the message has not been getting through to the general public and because people do not know the facts, many are dying unnecessarily."

WCRF general manager Lucie Galice added: "As a charity we are committed to spreading the message that healthy eating, physical activity and weight management can reduce cancer risk.

"But the results of this survey show all too clearly that there is still a long way to go.

"It is a reminder that both the public sector and the voluntary sector need to do better at informing the public that if they are overweight, have a poor diet and are not physically active, then they can be putting themselves at a higher risk of cancer."

Researchers have discovered that 50% of cancers can be avoided by simple lifestyle changes.