2024-07-05 17:00:23
François Lehn, science/health journalist and author for 20 years, renowned “feather” and assistant to Professor David Servan-Schreiber.
Francois Lehn’s latest articles (see all)
Tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years, with nearly one-third of Americans proudly displaying their body tattoos. However, a recent study in Sweden has raised concerns regarding the long-term health effects of this practice. Researchers did find a link between tattoos and a 21% increased risk of developing lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system.
Although these findings do not prove that tattoos are a direct cause of cancer, they raise important questions regarding the potential risks associated with body ink. In this article, we’ll look in detail at the study’s results, the response from the medical community, and the implications for tattoo wearers.
Learn regarding Swedish research on tattoos and cancer
The study, published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, was conducted by a team from Lund University in Sweden. Using data from the Swedish National Cancer Registry, the researchers identified all cases of malignant lymphoma diagnosed in approximately 12,000 people aged 20 to 60 between 2007 and 2017. Answers were compared to a questionnaire that asked participants whether they had tattoos, and if so, how many and the areas where they were tattooed.
The results showed that 20% of the respondents had tattoos. Researchers found tattoos were associated with regarding a 21% increased chance of developing lymphoma. Interestingly, the size of the tattoo had no impact on a person’s risk.
Additionally, people who had tattoos within two years of diagnosis were at the highest risk of developing lymphoma. The risk fell for up to 11 years from tattoo to diagnosis, then rose once more.
Learn regarding lymphoma and its relationship to tattoos
Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is responsible for the body’s immune defenses. There are two main types of lymphoma: non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (which accounts for regarding 4% of cancer diagnoses) and Hodgkin’s lymphoma (which is rarer).
Researchers say several factors might explain the potential link between tattoos and lymphoma. first, Some pigments used in tattoo inks, such as aromatic primary amines, have been classified as carcinogens or have been identified as potential carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Furthermore, research shows Tattoo pigments are eventually filtered and stored in lymph nodeswhere some lymphoma cases originate.
Medical community’s reaction
While the study raises legitimate concerns, medical experts interviewed urged caution before drawing conclusions. They say more research is needed to determine a direct causal link between tattoos and cancer. Determining that a specific environmental exposure triggers cancer cells requires a wealth of evidence. For example, the link between cancer and smoking or exposure to nuclear radiation is huge and undeniable. But tattoos have yet to make this obvious connection.
Additionally, two previous studies on this topic failed to find an association between tattoos and lymphoma. After age 11, the risk of lymphoma appears to increase once more, which is inconsistent with the toxic exposure theory.
Implications and Tips for Tattoo Wearers
While this study raises legitimate questions, experts agree that if you have a tattoo or are considering one, there’s no need to panic. Lymphoma remains a very rare disease, and the association with tattoos is currently just an association rather than a proven cause-and-effect relationship.
However, the researchers stress that the discovery might have important public health implications. This study suggests that tattooing may be a risk factor for malignant lymphoma, which is actionable from a public health perspective.
Until further research is conducted, experts advise tattoo wearers to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms. They also stress the importance of choosing an experienced tattoo artist and ensuring strict hygiene and disinfection procedures are followed.
Learn more regarding potential risks
While the results of this Swedish study raise legitimate concerns, it’s important to remain critical rather than panic. The link between tattoos and cancer is currently just a correlation, and more research is needed to establish cause and effect.
Still, the findings highlight the importance of continuing to study the long-term health effects of tattoos. By better understanding the potential risks, public health authorities will be able to better inform and protect tattoo wearers. In the meantime, caution and vigilance remain crucial for anyone who proudly displays body ink.
Nielsen C, Yeckman M, Jöud AS. Tattoo as a risk factor for malignant lymphoma: a population-based case-control study. eClinical Medicine. 2024;72:102649. doi:10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102649
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370%2824%2900228-1/fulltext
McCarty RD, Trabert B, Miller MM, et al. Abstract 6471: Tattoos and blood cancer risk: a population-based case-control study in Utah. Cancer Research Centre. 2023;83(7_supplement):6471-6471. Number: 10.1158/1538-7445.AM2023-6471
https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/article/83/7_Supplement/6471/720535/Abstract-6471-Tattooing-and-risk-of-hematologic
Warner FM, Darvishian M, Boyle T, et al. Tattoos and hematological malignancies in British Columbia, Canada. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers 2020;29(10):2093-2095. Number: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-20-0515
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