What Tennis Didn’t Teach Us About the Sun

/in , ,

What Tennis Didn’t Teach Us About the Sun

(But I’m Learning Now—13 Stitches Later)

I’m sidelined for a bit — 13 stitches in the calf after having a skin cancer removed.  Christina, my long-time dermatologist, confirmed it was a squamous cell carcinoma.  Thankfully, not a melanoma — like some of my friends have faced.

It’s a not-so-subtle reminder of all those years on court, before we knew much (or cared enough) about sun protection. Like many Aussie players, I’ve spent countless hours under a blazing sun, chasing balls — sunscreen optional.

But sitting still isn’t really my thing.  So while I’m off-court, I’ve been diving into new ways to stay in the game — for life.

Could a Simple Vitamin B Supplement Help Prevent Skin Cancer?

Turns out, there’s more we can do than just hats, sleeves, and SPF.  Compelling new research points to nicotinamide (vitamin B3) as a low-cost, low-risk way to reduce the risk of non-melanoma skin cancers — the kind most of us are likely to face.

Here’s what caught my attention:

  • A Sydney-based clinical trial showed a 23% reduction in new skin cancers among high-risk individuals taking 500mg of nicotinamide twice daily.

  • A study of 33,000 US veterans found a 20% lower risk of squamous cell carcinoma — and almost 50% lower for those who started supplementation after their first diagnosis.

This isn’t fringe wellness stuff. It’s rooted in real science.  Nicotinamide helps replenish NAD+, a molecule critical for DNA repair and immune function — both of which are compromised by UV exposure.

The Takeaway?

If you’ve logged a few decades under the sun like I have, or had a brush with skin cancer, here’s what you may wish to consider:

  • Talk to your GP about adding nicotinamide to your daily routine.   It’s safe, affordable, and well tolerated — just be sure to choose nicotinamide, not niacin (to avoid flushing).

  • Keep up the sun-smart habits: sunscreen, hats, long sleeves, shade.  This supplement is a layer of extra protection, not a replacement.

  • Think beyond skin: Supporting NAD+ levels may also promote healthy aging, energy metabolism, and long-term cellular repair.

The Bigger Game

In tennis — as in health — it’s all about:

  • Preparation

  • Recovery

  • Consistency

This minor setback?  Just a mid-match timeout on a longer journey.

Stay sun smart.  Stay strong.  Stay in the game.

— Still swinging, just from the sidelines for a few weeks.