Hidden hazard in licking golf balls

Tuesday 13 May 1997 23:02 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Hidden hazard in licking golf balls

Golfers who give their golf balls a "go-faster" lick before teeing-off risk doing their livers more damage on the course than afterwards in the clubhouse bar, doctors warn. Licking the ball is supposed to ensure it flies fast and true but it is exposing golfers to weedkillers which can cause "golf ball liver"; such chemicals can include agent orange - the defoliant used in the Vietnam War. Jeremy Laurance

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Hidden hazard in licking golf balls

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering