"We know it can be hard to make long-lasting changes to our lifestyles, like quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol. But it's important that people are aware of the things that they can do - and the extent to which these changes will affect their cancer risk - so that they can make informed choices.

"Leading a healthy life with a balanced diet and plenty of exercise does not guarantee that a person won't get cancer but these healthy habits can help to cut the odds."

The survey was carried out face-to-face during October 2008 by the British Market Research Bureau for Cancer Research UK.

3,947 people were asked: "What are the main changes people can make to their lifestyles to reduce the risk of cancer?" Participants, who were not given a list of options to choose from, named the below factors in response.

Smoking = 66% Food and diet = 59% Exercise = 29% Alcohol = 22% Sun and skincare = 11% Bodyweight = 3% Don't know / nothing = 7%

About a third (31%) of people mentioned 3 or more of the above lifestyle changes.

Find out more here.

infoncerresearchuk/