Research from Lund University in Sweden found a 21% increased risk of lymphoma in individuals with tattoos compared to those without. The study analyzed data from the Swedish National Cancer Register and included 1,398 people with lymphoma and 4,193 without. This increased risk was observed in the 2 years after getting a tattoo, dropping between years 3-10, and then rising again after 11 years. The size of the tattoo did not impact the risk of cancer. The study also found an increased risk for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma in individuals with tattoos.
The potential cancer risk associated with tattoos stems from the known carcinogens present in tattoo ink. Previous research has highlighted the presence of toxic chemicals in tattoo ink, which can be transported around the body by the immune system and stored in the lymph nodes. While the findings of this study provide evidence of an increased risk of lymphoma in individuals with tattoos, additional research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms underlying this association. Lifestyle factors like smoking and socioeconomic status were adjusted for in the analysis to minimize their potential impact on the results.
Although the study adjusted for lifestyle factors, further research is needed to distinguish the effects of tattoos from related lifestyle factors. The study indicates the importance of exploring the relationship between tattoos and cancer risk in more depth. Tattooing not only exposes individuals to the ink but also to the risks associated with needle use, such as hepatitis C transmission. While Swedish tattooists are well-educated in safety and hygiene measures, there may still be a risk of bloodborne infections via tattooing needles that are not properly sterilized.
Popularity of tattoos has increased in recent years, with a significant percentage of Europeans and Americans having tattoos. This rise in popularity has led to increased exposure to tattoo ink over a lifetime, raising concerns about their potential impact on health. The study emphasizes the need for individuals with tattoos to be aware of potential adverse health effects and seek medical attention for any tattoo-related symptoms. Additional research is planned to investigate if tattoos increase the risk of other diseases of the immune system like thyroid disease and rheumatoid arthritis, in addition to skin cancer.
The study’s findings suggest the need for additional research to understand the role of tattoos in cancer risk and the potential impact of lifestyle factors. Cancer Research UK emphasizes the importance of further studies to assess the relationship between tattoos and cancer risk. While tattoos may pose a risk of exposure to carcinogens through the ink, steps can be taken to reduce overall cancer risk, such as avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol consumption. As tattoos become increasingly popular, it is essential to continue investigating their potential impact on health and raise awareness about potential risks associated with tattooing.
