A study from the University of South Australia suggests that golfers in Australia face a 2.4 times greater risk of skin cancer than the general populace, with one in four receiving a diagnosis. Despite the well-documented health advantages of golf, the research urges enthusiasts to take sun protection seriously.
Golf serves as a universal sport, serving to connect individuals across varying ages, skill levels, and socio-economic backgrounds. It provides a balanced blend of physical exertion, social engagement, and outdoor exposure.
Nevertheless, caution is warranted before you ready your swing. The latest research by the University of South Australia demonstrates that individuals engaged in golf have a statistically significant increased susceptibility to skin cancer relative to the general population.
The research, carried out in collaboration with international partners, reveals that a quarter of all golfers have been diagnosed with skin cancer, corresponding to a 2.4-fold increase in risk.
This investigation is pioneering in its focus on the frequency of skin cancers among the golfing community in Australia.
Head researcher, Dr. Brad Stenner, emphasizes that the results underscore the critical need for sun protection while on the golf course.
“Consistent golfing activity offers multiple health advantages, ranging from maintaining physical fitness and an active lifestyle to social connectivity,” states Dr. Stenner.
“For instance, walking a standard golf course entails covering a distance of at least five to seven kilometers per game, often more. Add the weight of a set of golf clubs and potentially two to three rounds per week, and the beneficial impacts on endurance, muscle tone, and overall well-being become evident.
“While the health virtues of golf are clear, this study also addresses the associated risks. Golfers typically spend upwards of four hours in the sun and employ a variety of sun protection measures.
“Our data revealed that 27% of golfers—equating to one in four—had been diagnosed with skin cancer, in contrast to 7% within the broader population.
“Although there are campaigns to encourage sun-smart behavior in Australia, particularly during the summer months, the evidence suggests that these initiatives may not be adequately reaching the golfing demographic.”
Skin cancer represents the most commonly diagnosed cancer type in Australia annually. It comprises approximately 80% of all new cancer diagnoses in the country.
Skin cancers account for one-third of all cancer diagnoses, with between two and three million non-melanoma skin cancers and 132,000 melanoma skin cancers reported worldwide each year.
“This study corroborates the heightened risk of skin cancer among golfers. With this knowledge, it becomes imperative for players to be more vigilant about sun protection,” adds Dr. Stenner.
“Before embarking on a game, it is advisable to apply high-SPF sunscreen, don a wide-brimmed hat, and wear sleeve or arm coverage for maximal skin protection. Also, reapplication of sunscreen during the game is essential. Once these precautions are taken, you are prepared to tee off.”
Reference: “Higher Lifetime Prevalence of Skin Cancer in Australian Golf Participants Compared to the General Population” by Brad Stenner, Terry Boyle, Daryll Archibald, Nigel Arden, Roger Hawkes, and Stephanie Filbay, published on 1 July 2023, in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine. DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2023-001597.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Skin Cancer Risk in Golfers
What is the main finding of the University of South Australia’s study on golfers?
The study reveals that golfers in Australia are 2.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer compared to the general population.
Who conducted the study on the increased risk of skin cancer among golfers?
The study was conducted by the University of South Australia in collaboration with global partners.
How was the risk quantified in the study?
The risk was quantified by indicating that one in four golfers had received a skin cancer diagnosis, corresponding to a 2.4 times greater risk compared to the general populace.
Is this the first study of its kind?
Yes, this is the first study that specifically explores the prevalence of skin cancers among the golfing community in Australia.
What are some of the health benefits of golf mentioned in the study?
The study mentions that golf offers an array of health benefits such as physical fitness, social engagement, and overall well-being. Walking an average golf course covers a distance of five to seven kilometers, enhancing endurance and muscle tone.
Despite the health benefits, what does the study advise golfers to do?
Despite the numerous health advantages, the study strongly advises golfers to prioritize sun protection measures. This includes the application of high-SPF sunscreen, wearing wide-brimmed hats, and arm coverage.
How prevalent is skin cancer in Australia?
Skin cancer accounts for about 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers in Australia each year. It is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in the country.
What precautions are recommended for golfers?
Dr. Brad Stenner, the lead researcher, recommends the application of high-SPF sunscreen, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and arm coverage for maximal skin protection. Reapplication of sunscreen during the game is also advised.
Are current sun-smart campaigns effective for golfers?
According to the study, existing sun-smart campaigns, particularly those run during the summer, may not be effectively reaching the golfing demographic.
What is the global prevalence of skin cancer?
Globally, between two and three million non-melanoma skin cancers and 132,000 melanoma skin cancers are reported each year. Skin cancers account for one-third of all cancer diagnoses worldwide.
More about Skin Cancer Risk in Golfers
- University of South Australia’s Official Study Publication
- Skin Cancer Facts and Statistics
- Health Benefits of Golf
- Sun Protection Guidelines in Australia
- Global Prevalence of Skin Cancer
- Importance of Sunscreen
- BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine Journal
8 comments
The study’s legit, from a reputable university. It’s a wake-up call for not just golfers, but anyone who spends extended time outdoors.
thats surprising! always thought the slow pace and open fields made golf pretty safe. gotta rethink my sun protection strategy now.
Interesting, but would love to see more studies to back this up. One study isn’t enough to generalize, IMO.
Wow, never thought golf could be that risky. I always saw it as a relaxin’ outdoor game. Time to stock up on sunscreen I guess.
Living in Australia, you kinda get used to the high skin cancer rates, but this is a wakeup call. golfers or not, we all need to be sun-smart.
Omg, I knew it. Being out in the sun that long can’t be good for you. Skin cancer is no joke, people!
Well, time to add “applying sunscreen” to my pre-game ritual! Never hurts to be extra careful.
Kinda a double edged sword ain’t it? Golf is good for your health but at the same time, it increases skin cancer risks. What gives!