Golf and Skin Health: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the most important environmental risk factor in the development of cutaneous melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)), rates of which have been steadily increasing worldwide over the last 40 years [1]. UVR can also cause painful sunburn reactions, skin pigment changes, accelerated skin ageing and eye disorders such as cataracts. Conversely, UVR has important health benefits. Exposure to ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation stimulates vitamin-D production, which is essential for skeletal health and optimal immune function [2]. There is emerging evidence that UVR has beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors independently of Vitamin D [3]. Sunlight is also known to have mood-lifting effects [4]. Playing golf has overall physical and mental health benefits, [5,6] however by being placed in the sun for extended periods of time, the golfing population face an increased risk Review Exercise Medicine Open Access eISSN: 2508-9056