More than a quarter of adults in the UK believe getting cancer is all down to fate, according to research conducted by a leading cancer charity.

The survey of more than 4,000 people by Cancer Research UK asked people if they believed they could do anything to reduce their risk of developing cancer or whether getting the disease was a matter of fate.

Researchers found that 27% of respondents believed that it was fate. Among those from the most deprived areas, the figure rose to 43%, while for those in the most privileged areas, the figure fell to 14%.

The charity said that more women than men believed that the development of cancer was down to fate, while people over 65 were the most likely to put the disease down to destiny.

Smokers were also 50% more likely than non-smokers to believe that getting cancer was fate.

Cancer Research UK said that its 'Reduce The Risk' campaign aimed to highlight the steps that people could take to reduce their risk of developing cancer. These include:

• Stop smoking: It is the best present you will ever give yourself;
• Stay in shape: Be active and keep a healthy body weight;
• Eat and drink healthily: Limit alcohol and choose a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables;
• Be SunSmart: Protect yourself in the sun and take care not to burn;
• Look after number one: Know your body and see your doctor about anything unusual. Go for screening when invited.

Dr Lesley Walker, Director of Cancer Information at Cancer Research UK said: "It is alarming that such a large percentage of the British population do not realise that half of all cases of cancer can be prevented by lifestyle changes. We can all reduce our risk of cancer by stopping smoking, keeping a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables and taking plenty of exercise.

"Enjoying the sun safely and avoiding sunburn also helps to reduce cancer risk.

"We can give people information about how to do this but it is seriously worrying that so many people think cancer is down to fate."

(KMcA)