CATEGORY:HEALTH
--------------------



MARATHON RUNNING is such a great form of exercise, it's hard to believe that it could have a negative impact on your health. It keeps you in shape. Helps control your blood pressure. And even elevates your mood. But according to a new study published in the Archives of Dermatology, marathon runners have a higher risk of developing atypical moles and skin lesions — which suggest a higher risk for skin cancer — than those who do not run.

The study evaluated 210 marathon runners for skin cancer risk factors by analyzing the intensity of their training, the type of clothing they wore and whether or not they applied sunscreen. Another control group of 210 non-runners of the same age and sex were also evaluated. Each of the 420 participants answered a questionnaire about their skin, family history and other physical characteristics.

The control group experienced a higher level of sun sensitivity, since many of the participants had blue, green or grey eyes. But the marathon runners were more likely to have atypical moles and solar lentigines (small, flat pigmented lesions) — which indicate a higher risk of malignant melanoma. The study also found that runners who trained harder were more likely to have skin problems.

The researchers think that two factors cause the marathon runners to have an increased risk for skin cancer. First, the marathon runners have more sun exposure. In fact, almost 97% of the runners wore shorts and short-sleeved shirts and only 56% regularly applied sunscreen when training. Second, endurance exercise may suppress the immune system.

What it means: More studies need to be done to determine the association between running and skin cancer. But in the meantime, take some precautions when running outside — make sure to apply sun and wear clothes that cover you.


Written by Carolyn Sayre
Reprinted from Time Online
Web Exclusive | Health
[TIME - The Daily Rx]
TIME's daily notes on health and medicine