PLAYING golf could more than double your risk of skin cancer, researchers warn.
More than a quarter of golfers suffered skin cancer, compared to 7 per cent in the general population, an Australian study found.
Researchers said it is vital you protect yourself from the sun before teeing off.
Dr Brad Stenner, of the University of South Australia, said: “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.”
Skin cancer is the fifth most common cancer in Britain, with around 16,700 new cases spotted per year.
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The disease kills 2,300 Brits annually.
Some 86 per cent of cases are preventable and most are caused by sun exposure without protection.
Around 4.8million Brits play golf, according to figures from the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews.
Most golfers spend four or more hours in the sun per session, experts estimate.
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The study, published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, tracked health records and golfing habits of more than 16,100 Australians.
Regular golfers were counted as anyone who played at least once a month.
Some 91 of the 336 golfers suffered a melanoma during the period, compared to 1,173 of the 15,780 population.
Dr Stenner said: “While there are clear health benefits of engaging in golf, this study explored the risks of playing golf using various sun protection strategies.
“We found that 27 per cent of golfers had been diagnosed with skin cancer.
“So, while sun smart campaigns do exist and are promoted, it seems they may be missing the mark when it comes to golfers.”
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