New research has found that 97.5 per cent of Scots are likely to be either cigarette smokers, heavy drinkers, fat, have a bad diet, and never do any exercise.

But researchers warned the problems could be even worse as the study was based on self-reported answers, which notoriously underestimate actual consumption.

The Scots have always been known for their high rates of cancer and heart disease because of their bad habits, but the new study from the University of Glasgow has confirmed the widely held belief.

The study, published in the journal BMC Public Health, was based on an analysis of 6574 people who answered the Scottish Health Survey in 2003.

Dr David Conway, of the University of Glasgow, said the results painted a poor picture of the nation’s health.