Golfers spend considerable amounts of time outside so it’s important players understand the risk of skin cancer and how to best minimize exposure.

Two in three Australians (2 in 3 men and 3 in 5 women) will develop some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. Over 440,000 Australians are treated for skin cancer each year and more than 2000 Australians die annually from skin cancer. And while these statistics are alarming, this does not have to be the case.

Nearly all skin cancers can be prevented by protecting yourself from the sun and most can be cured if they are diagnosed and treated early.

John Buchanan, Pennant Hills Golf Club captain and Cancer Council NSW advocate, has witnessed the devastating affects skin cancer has had on fellow golfers and implores players to take proper precautions against the sun or face the consequences.  

“Sun protection is important at every age,” he said. It’s no coincidence that the people I’ve known who have been diagnosed with skin cancer have all been men and all golfers.

“My dad was recently diagnosed with a melanoma, which he’s now had removed. My older brother had a melanoma about 10 years ago and a close friend of mine spent the last three months of his life living with me and my family before passing away.

“Golfers are exposed to the sun for long periods of time and unless you’re vigilant, you run the risk of having a melanoma or another form of skin cancer. I find wearing a broad brimmed hat doesn’t impact my game … if the greats like Greg Norman can do it, I can do it.”

SUN SAFETY TIPS

Slip on clothing that covers your shoulders, arms and legs. Choose shirts with collars, high necks and sleeves and trousers or longer shorts and skirts that come below the knees.

Slop on SPF30+ or higher broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen. Apply generously 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every 2 hours. Never rely on sunscreen alone.

Slap on a broad-brimmed hat that protects your face, ears and neck. Broad-brimmed, bucket and legionnaire style hats provide good protection. Baseball caps are not recommended, as they do not protect the ears, cheeks or neck.

Seek shade whenever you can especially when UV levels are highest between10am and 2pm (11am and 3pm during daylight saving).

Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian Standard AS1067 and that fit your face well.

For more information please visit Cancer Council NSW