Authored by Zena le Roux via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours),
“During a period of my life where I lacked full information about the substances entering my body or touching my skin, I chose to get tattoos. At that time, it was all about art, self-expression, and defining my creative identity.”
“But my perspective has evolved over time. It’s now clear to me that tattoos are not innocuous,” Ellie Grey, a book author, shared on Facebook.
Like Grey, many individuals opt for tattoos as a means of self-expression, to commemorate important events, or as a form of personal transformation. However, even when the significance is profound, tattoos can have repercussions—some of which are only now being revealed.
The Connection Between Tattoos and Cancer
Several tattoo inks contain chemicals classified as carcinogenic or cancer-causing by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
A study conducted by Swedish researchers in 2024 found that individuals with malignant lymphoma were 21 percent more likely to have tattoos compared to controls, with the highest risk—increased by 81 percent—among those who acquired their first tattoo within two years of diagnosis.
“We are aware that tattoo ink often includes toxic substances and that a significant portion of the injected ink is removed from the skin by the immune system, which identifies it as a foreign agent,” explained Christel Nielsen, associate professor and lead researcher of the study, to The Epoch Times.
Once the ink penetrates the dermis—the layer of skin below the surface—the immune system works to eliminate it, sending pigment particles to nearby lymph nodes and potentially other organs. This process could disrupt immune function, trigger systemic inflammation, and over time, the persistent presence of ink in lymphatic tissue might lead to abnormal immune responses and increase the risk of cancers such as lymphoma and skin cancer.
Are certain tattoos more hazardous than others?
Does Tattoo Size Matter
The study by Nielsen did not establish a clear connection between tattoo size and lymphoma risk.
“We did not find an elevated risk with larger tattoos, which was unexpected,” Nielsen stated. “However, this does not definitively rule out the existence of such a relationship; it just suggests that our study design may not have been sensitive enough to detect it.”
Nevertheless, Nielsen pointed out that a January study published in BMC Public Health on the same topic proposed a different perspective, indicating that larger tattoos could indeed be linked to a higher cancer risk. The study suggested that larger tattoos might have a more pronounced effect due to increased overall ink exposure or prolonged exposure to tattoos acquired over time.
Tattoo risks also encompass infections and allergic reactions that may be challenging to treat, as explained by Dr. Bruce Brod, clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine to the Epoch Times. These risks could be heightened by the quantity of ink used or the depth of its deposition, factors more prevalent in larger or multiple tattoos.
Does Tattoo Color Matter
The color of the tattoo is another factor to consider. In a matched analysis comparing individuals with similar characteristics, those with black or grey tattoos had a 23 percent higher risk of lymphoma. Individuals with both black and colored tattoos faced a 21 percent higher risk compared to those without tattoos.
In a broader, less-controlled analysis, the risk was higher for black and grey tattoos, showing a 32 percent increase, and lower for tattoos with both black and colored ink, exhibiting an 11 percent increase. It is important to note that this broader analysis could have been influenced by other variables, such as lifestyle or health differences among groups.
Black ink commonly contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which are known carcinogens and can elevate cancer risk. Colored inks, on the other hand, may include primary aromatic amines. Both types of ink may contain metals like arsenic, lead, and chromium.
Warning Signs
“The current regulations concerning tattoo ink components are inadequate,” warned Dr. Trisha Khanna, dermatologist and medical advisory board member at Codex Labs, to The Epoch Times. “This is a growing concern within the dermatology community.”
Some warning signs individuals with tattoos should be vigilant for when monitoring their skin health include persistent redness, itching, lumps, new pigmented lesions, color changes, ulceration, and bleeding, noted Khanna.
Tattoos can complicate the early detection of skin cancer, according to Brod. Since changes in the skin might be concealed by tattoo pigments, identifying potential issues becomes more challenging.
If individuals notice a new or changing spot within a tattoo—or anywhere on the skin—it is crucial to seek evaluation from a dermatologist, he emphasized.
Laser Removal
Upon learning about the risks, some individuals may consider removing their tattoo. However, laser removal could potentially elevate the risk of lymphoma. Among tattooed participants who underwent laser treatment, the risk of lymphoma was found to be three times higher.
These findings align with experimental studies demonstrating that laser treatment breaks down azo compounds—chemicals used in tattoo coloring—into potentially toxic, cancer-causing substances. This breakdown could release more harmful chemicals into the body, further heightening the risk.
What to Do if You Have a Tattoo
If you already have tattoos and are concerned about the risks, the best approach is to focus on your overall health.
“The most effective action we can take for our health, whether we have tattoos or not, is to maintain a healthy lifestyle—regular exercise and a balanced diet,” advised Nielsen.
Ensure to play an active role in enhancing your diet to help diminish cancer risk.
“Consuming more plant-based foods is not just a passing trend—it is a proven strategy,” highlighted Amy Bragagnini, a clinical oncology dietitian, to The Epoch Times. “A diet abundant in colorful fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains has been linked to lower cancer rates.”
For those contemplating getting a tattoo, it is essential to carefully consider all information before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice is personal.
“As researchers, our duty is to provide knowledge so individuals can make informed choices,” remarked Nielsen.
“If someone is apprehensive about potential health implications, it might be advisable to abstain from tattooing to avoid future concerns.”
Loading…