A CARD game, information pack and brainstorming session are the latest tools to demystify cancer for York youngsters.

York Against Cancer is launching a campaign - believed to be the first of its kind in the country - to set the record straight about the disease.

More than a year of research and development has gone into Dispelling The Myths, which is designed to be taught as part of schools' health education programmes.

The initiative begins with a brainstorm session to determine what pupils know about cancer - including where their information comes from, such as personal experience or TV dramas.

That is followed by a card game of "true or false"

questions designed to test their knowledge and assumptions.

Subsequent lessons take a more detailed look at cancer - its causes and how to reduce the risks through diet, exercise and life balance.

Keith Hayton, a former head teacher at Fulford School, is now honorary administrator for York Against Cancer, and set up the cancer education programme.

It is aimed at secondary school pupils in the area covered by York Hospital.

Mr Hayton said: "We know from our research that many children have misconceptions about cancer.

"Our programme is designed to set the record straight, and to give them some lifestyle advice on how to avoid cancers."

Among the facts in Dispelling The Myths are that one in three people will be affected by cancer - but of those that do contract it, 75 per cent will beat it.

Mr Hayton said, as far as he was aware, Dispelling The Myths was the first campaign of its kind in the country.

It is one of a series of programmes being introduced by York Against Cancer, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

He said: "We live in an age where almost everyone has been touched by cancer, through family members or friends, yet there is an alarming lack of information being made available to people about the disease.

"Despite being a small local charity, we felt that we should do something to address this problem in York and the surrounding area. In trials before the formal launch, all the indications are that the programme is popular with both pupils and members of staff.

"We hope it can leave a lasting impression and influence their lifestyle choices in the years to come."