Increased Risk of Skin Cancer and Osteoarthritis Found in Retired Olympians, Study Shows

Recent research conducted by scientists at Keele University has highlighted that retired Olympic athletes face a higher likelihood of developing certain health conditions, notably skin cancer and osteoarthritis, compared to the general population. The study, published in the journal Sports Medicine—Open, analyzed data from 493 retired Olympians from Great Britain and contrasted it with matched controls from the wider population.

The findings revealed that athletes who participated in outdoor sports such as sailing, rowing, and athletics exhibited a greater incidence of melanoma and other skin cancers. Specifically, these athletes showed an increased risk of skin malignancies, which is likely linked to prolonged sun exposure during their careers. Additionally, the research indicated a significant rise—7.8%—in cases of osteoarthritis among retired Olympians, a condition characterized by inflammation and joint pain that often results from sport-related injuries.

Interestingly, despite these increased risks, the study also found that retired athletes generally had a lower prevalence of other health issues. Conditions like diabetes, stroke, and asthma were less common among former elite athletes. This suggests that their exceptional cardiovascular health, especially those involved in endurance and power sports, provides a protective benefit.

Dr. Dale Cooper, the study’s lead author, explained that while elite sports participation promotes overall health, it also increases the risk of injuries that may lead to osteoarthritis later in life. He emphasized the importance of targeted health strategies to mitigate these risks, including injury prevention and skin cancer screening, particularly for athletes involved in outdoor disciplines.

Supporting these findings, Dr. Caroline Aylott from Versus Arthritis highlighted the substantial burden osteoarthritis places on individuals and healthcare systems. She emphasized that physical activity remains vital for health, but injury management and preventive measures are crucial for long-term joint health.

This research underscores the complexity of health outcomes among retired athletes. It stresses the need for tailored healthcare approaches to address increased risks while continuing to promote the benefits of physical activity and sports participation.