
Golfing may be a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the pleasures of a classic summer pastime. But a new study warns that walking the greens for hours on end without adequate sun protection may notably increase the risk for skin cancer. Researchers in Australia found that more than one-quarter of golfers in that country have been diagnosed with skin cancer at some point, making Aussie players 2.4 times more likely to get the disease than their non-golfing peers. “Our previous research, and that of others worldwide, has demonstrated the positive impact of golf on people’s health, including physical, mental and cognitive well-being,” said study lead author Brad Stenner. At the same time, “Australia is well known for its high skin cancer rates, and frequency and intensity of sun exposure,” said Stenner, a lecturer in health and human performance at the University of South Australia in Adelaide. However, “the cumulative effects of sun exposure do increase the risks of skin cancer, regardless of where you live,” he added. Knowing this, golfers should more actively strive to protect themselves, Stenner and other experts said. In the new research, just 7% of those in the general public reported ever having a skin cancer diagnosis versus 27% of the golfers. This suggests golfers face a nearly 250% greater risk of developing skin cancer than non-players, the study… read on > read on >