The Cyclists’ Cancer
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The Cyclists’ Cancer

First published July 23, 2020
This morning, I spent an hour being examined from head to toe by a dermatologist, but the story starts a couple of months ago. Through my pre-coffee morning haze, I was brushing my teeth when I noticed a small brown mark on the lefthand-side of my face around where my helmet straps cross. Over the course of the following couple of weeks, the brown area grew a little, became slightly raised, and developed a coarse texture. I booked an appointment with my local GP who subsequently referred me to a dermatologist.
So returning to the dermatologist’s office, he pointed out various points on my face and body where I’ve suffered skin damage over the years. Most of the affected areas were nothing more than changes in my skin’s pigment - nothing of concern. However, that little brown area—the one my helmet straps had so conveniently obscured—was a little more sinister. In fact, it was pre-cancerous; left untreated this could go on to develop into skin cancer. Luckily, a couple of blasts of somewhat uncomfortable liquid nitrogen removed the offending growth and the issue was resolved.
Talking through my lifestyle, the dermatologist warned me that cyclists, and those who spend extended periods outdoors, are prone to these issues. He gave me some advice, which I’d like to share so that you can avoid the worry and potentially life-changing effects of sun damage, so here we go:
  1. Before every ride, whether it’s sunny or not, apply sunscreen. Good sunscreen must protect against UVA and UVB, be waterproof, and suit your skin.
  1. Always wear cycling mitts - cyclists’ hands are prone to sun damage and skin cancer.
  1. If you experience any changes in your skin, go see a dermatologist - don’t leave it because time is of the essence.
It’s all simple advice that’s easy to follow, but it’s also advice that might save your life. Thankfully, I caught my issue early, so I can ride for many more years to come - although my face is going to be a little swollen and scabby for a couple of weeks. So, finally, please look after your skin, share this article’s advice, and remember that your cycling tan is not the be-all and end-all.