Tattoos may increase the risk of skin cancer and lymphoma

An international research team of scientists from Denmark and Finland has studied the potential risks of tattoos to human health and found that they may increase the risk of developing skin cancer and lymphoma. The results of this study were published in the journal BMC Public Health.

Effects of tattoos and the immune system

When tattoo ink is applied to the skin, some of it is absorbed by the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are an important part of the immune system, which plays a role in protecting against harmful substances. However, tattoo pigments can be perceived by the body as foreign substances, which is likely to lead to persistent inflammatory processes and continuous activation of the immune system.

Henrik Frederiksen, a professor and hematologist at the University of Southern Denmark, said of the study:
“We are seeing ink accumulating in the lymph nodes. We suspect that this may impair their function or have other negative health effects.”

Study and its results

The scientists used data from the Danish Twin Tattoo Cohort to analyze data from more than 5,900 Danish twins. In this study, one twin was compared with the other without tattoos. This method allowed us to take into account genetic and environmental factors.

The results showed that:

People with tattoos have a higher risk of skin cancer and lymphoma.

Large tattoos (larger than the size of the palm of your hand) pose an even greater risk.

The risk of developing lymphoma is three times higher than in people without tattoos.

Types of Ink and Risk Levels

One of the most important findings of the study is that some pigments may be more dangerous than others. For example:

Red ink is associated with a higher risk of allergic reactions.

Although it is not yet known, some chemicals may have carcinogenic effects.

This study suggests that the approach to tattoos needs to be reconsidered. While a direct causal relationship has not yet been established, the available evidence suggests that the potential health effects of tattoos should not be discounted. It is important for people to be fully informed about the potential risks before getting a large tattoo.

The results of the study still need to be studied in more depth, but the evidence about the effects on the immune system and the risk of cancer is a serious issue for the medical and cosmetic industries. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”