The exhibition at sun is the primary risk factor for skin cancer. Each year in France, 80,000 new cases are diagnosed. In forty years, the disease has tripled.
There are two main types of skin cancer: carcinomas and the melanomas. Carcinomas are the most common skin cancers. They generally occur after the age of 50, on exposed areas of the body (face, neck, shoulders, forearms, legs, etc.) and are most often due to excessive and chronic sun exposure.
A news study published by BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine warns followers of golf. One in four golfers would be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. Compared to the rest of the population, the risk would be multiplied by 2.4.
“We found that 27% of golfers had been diagnosed with skin cancer”
” Playing golf regularly has excellent health benefits: you stay fit and active and you keep in touch with your friends says lead researcher Dr. Brad Stenner.
Also, it adds if you walk an average golf course, you walk at least five to seven kilometers each game. Golf is good for your endurance, muscle tone and well-being.
” Although the practice of golf presents obvious health benefitsthis study explored the risks, as golfers tend to play for four or more hours in the sun “, adds the scientist.
” We constated that 27% of golfersor one in four, had been diagnosed with skin cancer, compared to 7% of the general population “.
According to the doctor, this study is a good opportunity to recall the importance of having a sunscreen and not just in hot weather. He adds that prevention campaigns should target golfers more.
” My advice is this: before you go out and play golf, be sure to put on a protective high SPF sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and some sort of sleeve or arm guard to make sure you have the coverage maximum. Remember to reapply sunscreen as you go. “, advocates Dr. Stenner.
