Golfers Are More Prone to One Concerning Health Risk, New Study Finds
Hitting the golf course can be a great way to take your mind off of life's worries while also getting in a great workout. But standing out in the sun for hours on end might not be the best thing for your health, according to a new study out of Australia.
Researchers found that playing golf can be associated with elevated risk of skin cancer, especially when players don't take the proper care and lather on sunscreen while out on the links. The study published in the BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine journal found that just seven percent of the general public reported ever having a skin cancer diagnosis; in golfers, that number rose to 27 percent—a nearly 300 percent jump.
“This study confirms that golfers have an elevated risk of skin cancer. Knowing that, players should more actively strive to protect themselves,” Brad Stenner, the study's lead author, said of the findings, per Practical Dermatology. “Before you go out and play golf make sure you put on some high-SPF protective sunscreen, wear a broad-brimmed hat, and some sort of sleeve or arm protection to ensure you’ve got the maximum coverage, and don’t forget to reapply sunscreen as you go. Once you have that, you’re all set to tee off."
This isn't exactly breaking news. Dermatologists and oncologists have long warned of the dangers of extended exposure to UV radiation, whether that be at the beach or out on the field. But despite lack of sun protection being a known cause of skin cancer, the research points to golfers seemingly not taking many of these measures seriously.
According to the team, golfers face "a significantly higher risk [of skin cancer], which we believe is associated with prolonged sun exposure and/or not using skin-protection strategies," Stenner concluded. "Any time you spend time in the sun unprotected increases your risk of skin cancer."
As the summer continues to heat up, let the new research be a reminder to pack on the sunscreen any time you're outside, whether you're dominating on the golf course or relaxing at the pool.
