Melanoma and Marathons

While many believe that marathon runners are the pinnacle of health, research published in the Archives of Dermatology shows that they may be at increased risk for developing cancer of the skin. Melanoma is an aggressive type of skin cancer. While it is less common than other types of skin cancer, it is the most deadly type. Melanoma arises from the pigmented cells of the skin called melanocytes. While anyone can have a melanoma, it is more common in those who are light skinned and those who have excessive exposure to UV light. Moles with variable pigmentation, or moles with irregular borders are concerning as they are more likely to be melanoma. The researchers, prompted by the detection of a number of melanomas in ultra-marathoners, compared precancerous lesions in marathoners and control patients. To perform their study, the researchers examined 200 marathon participants and a group of control patients for skin cancer and precancerous lesions. Nealry one half of marathon runners had atypical moles as compared to only one third of controls, despite the fact that controls, as a group, had lighter eye and skin color and more birth marks. Those who ran more than 70 km per week were at higher risk than those who ran 40 per week. Just over half of the runners reported using sunscreen even though nearly all ran in shorts and in sleeveless shirts. The study cautions that marathon running has its risks. Runners need to wear sunscreen, choose appropriate clothing and time their periods of running to avoid peak UV exposure.