Durham Cricket Club stars given cancer screen test

May 29 2009 by Helen Rae, The Journal

SKIN cancer experts carried out a screening programme on Durham County cricketers.

Although the recent Test Match at Chester-le-Street was hit by rain, professionals spend a large part of the summer in the full glare of the sun.

And while many wear sun hats and sun-block, it is feared cricketers could be vulnerable to skin cancer.

The Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) teamed up with health clinic sk:n (ok) to provide cancer screenings for all the players.

Each underwent a full body mole check yesterday (Thurs) with a consultant dermatologist, followed by a skin assessment under a UV lamp to show existing sun damage and any other problem areas on the face. Fast bowler Luke Evans, 22, of Sunderland, was one of the first to be tested. His results were not made public.

He said: "Prevention is always better than cure – that’s why it’s great we’re being looked after in such a professional way.

"Our supporters need to take note too – it’s time to cover up and get checked."

Jason Ratcliffe, assistant chief executive of the PCA said: "Cricketers are more at risk to sun damage than most sports players due to the length of the game and time spent abroad. As such we feels it’s our duty of care to them to provide this service."

Director of cricket for Durham, Geoff Cook, said: "This is such an important aspect of our players’ health so we are delighted that they will all benefit from such stringent skin health care checks."

But it is not only the players that need to ensure they are protecting themselves from the sun and monitoring moles on a regular basis.