Study Suggests Tattoos May Raise Cancer Risks: Concerns Over Skin Cancer and Lymphoma
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A recent, troubling study has found that getting a tattoo could significantly increase the risk of certain cancers. Published in BMC Public Health, the research analyzed data from over 2,000 twins, comparing the cancer rates of individuals with tattoos to those without.
The results indicate that people with tattoos are 62% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer compared to non-tattooed individuals. The risk of skin cancer was found to increase by 137% for those with tattoos larger than the size of a palm, while the likelihood of developing lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, surged by 173%.
The study raised alarms about the possible harmful interactions between tattoo ink and surrounding cells. The researchers noted, "Our study suggests an increased risk of lymphoma and skin cancer among tattooed individuals. We are concerned that tattoo ink may interact with surrounding cells in ways that could have severe consequences."
In addition, the study found that tattoo ink particles accumulate in regional lymph nodes, which could then spread through the bloodstream to other organs.
Is Tattoo Ink Carcinogenic?
The research also highlighted that black tattoo ink, the most commonly used, often contains soot-based products like carbon black, which the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans. Moreover, azo compounds used in colored inks can release carcinogenic aromatic amines when exposed to sunlight or during laser tattoo removal.
The study further noted that "Tattoo ink causes inflammation at the deposit site, which could eventually lead to chronic inflammation and an increased risk of abnormal cell growth, particularly skin cancer and lymphoma." It also warned that the carcinogenic properties of ink particles might amplify this risk over time.
As tattoos continue to grow in popularity, especially among younger generations, this research highlights an increasing concern. In some countries, the percentage of people with tattoos has reached 20-25%.
