Tattoo ink contains known carcinogens and can be transported around the body, potentially ending up in the lymph nodes. However, there is limited research on whether having a tattoo increases a person’s risk of cancer. Researchers from Lund University in Sweden used national registries to identify cases of lymphoma and analyze possible links to tattoos. They found a 21% increased risk of lymphoma in people with tattoos compared to those without tattoos. The size of the tattoo did not impact the risk, and researchers are now investigating if tattoos are associated with other types of cancer.
The study analyzed data from the Swedish National Cancer Register, focusing on individuals diagnosed with lymphoma between 2007 and 2017. They found that participants with tattoos had an 81% higher risk of lymphoma in the 2 years following tattooing, which then decreased between years 3-10 post-tattooing before increasing again after 11 years. Overall, individuals with tattoos had a 21% higher risk of developing lymphoma compared to controls. The study did not explore why the increased risk occurred but adjusted for lifestyle factors such as smoking and socioeconomic status.
Experts caution that further research is needed to disentangle the effects of tattoos from related lifestyle factors and understand better the role of lifestyle in the observed associations. There is still not enough evidence to definitively say that tattoos increase cancer risk, and more research in this area is crucial. While tattooing exposes individuals to ink and needle-use risks, Swedish tattooists are well educated in safety and hygiene. Researchers are planning to investigate if tattoos also raise the risk of other immune system diseases, such as thyroid disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
The popularity of tattoos has increased over the years, with approximately 20% of Europeans and up to 30% of Americans having tattoos. Many people get tattoos at a young age, which means they are exposed to the ink over their lifetime. Although lymphoma is a rare disease, the 21% increase in risk seen in the study is notable. It is important for tattooed individuals to be aware of potential adverse health effects and seek medical advice if they experience any symptoms related to their tattoos. Previous research has focused on the chemical content of tattoo ink, but its impact on cancer risk had not been thoroughly investigated.
Tattooing can expose individuals not only to tattoo ink but also to the risks associated with needle use. Improperly sterilized tattooing needles can transmit hepatitis C, which has been linked to an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While certain viruses can cause lymphoma, Swedish tattoo artists adhere to high safety and hygiene standards. The study findings highlight the need for more research to understand the impact of tattoos on health. To reduce cancer risk, individuals are encouraged to avoid smoking, maintain a healthy diet, and limit alcohol consumption. Additional research is needed to clarify the associations between tattoos and cancer risk, considering potential confounding lifestyle factors.
