A recent study revealed a potential association between tattoos and an increased risk of developing lymphoma, a type of cancer that originates from immune system cells.
The study, published in eClinicalMedicine and utilizing data from Sweden's National Registries, found that individuals with tattoos had a 20% higher risk of lymphoma compared to those without tattoos.
The research team identified 2,938 people diagnosed with lymphoma between the ages of 20 and 60 through population registers. These individuals were then matched with a control group of the same sex and age who did not have lymphoma. In total, the study included 11,905 participants, with 1,398 people from the lymphoma group and 4,193 people from the control group responding to a questionnaire about lifestyle factors, including whether they had tattoos.
Among the participants with lymphoma, 21% (289 individuals) were tattooed, while 18% (735 individuals) in the control group had tattoos. After adjusting for factors such as smoking and age, the researchers found that the risk of developing lymphoma was 21% higher among those who were tattooed.
The researchers did not find that the size of the tattoo affected lymphoma risk. Lead investigator Christel Nielsen speculated a tattoo, regardless of size, may trigger low-grade inflammation in the body, which could potentially contribute to cancer development.
The study also indicated that tattoo ink does not remain in the skin but is relocated within the body, potentially affecting the lymphatic system. Nielsen explained, "We already know that when the tattoo ink is injected into the skin, the body interprets this as something foreign that should not be there, and the immune system is activated. A large part of the ink is transported away from the skin to the lymph nodes where it is deposited."
While the study revealed an increased risk of lymphoma among tattooed individuals, it did not pinpoint the exact elements in tattoo ink responsible for this association. Nielsen emphasized the need for safer tattoo ink production to ensure that tattoos remain safe. She also mentioned the importance of individuals being aware of the potential health risks associated with tattoos and seeking healthcare if they notice any symptoms they believe may be related to their tattoos.
The research group plans to continue their work by investigating potential associations between tattoos and other types of cancer, as well as exploring links to other inflammatory diseases.
In a video released by Lund University, Nielsen stated, "Our study shows that tattooed individuals have a 20% increased risk of lymphoma." She also called for safer tattoo ink production, saying, "We need to put pressure on the color industry, the ink industry, to produce safer ink."
Nielsen concluded by highlighting the importance of awareness about the potential health aspects of tattoos, stating, "It's really important to be aware that tattoos may be associated with health aspects. If you have any symptoms that you think are related to your tattoo, then you should seek healthcare."
The authors declared no conflicts of interest.