Henrik Frederiksen, lead author of the study, said, “We don’t yet know whether this persistent strain could weaken the function of the lymph nodes or have other health consequences
Tattoos may increase the risk of developing skin and blood cancers, according to recent studies conducted by the University of Southern Denmark. Researchers have been examining whether the ink used in tattoos can travel beyond the skin and enter the immune system, potentially harming the lymph nodes, which are responsible for fighting infections. Although the exact mechanism is not yet clear, scientists believe the ink may have lasting health consequences.
Henrik Frederiksen, lead author of the study, said, “We don’t yet know whether this persistent strain could weaken the function of the lymph nodes or have other health consequences.” The research focused on analyzing health data from nearly 6,000 twins born between 1960 and 1996 and tracked their health until 2017. This study is unique because it compares twins, one of whom has cancer, while both share similar genetic and environmental factors.
Researchers suspect that tattoo ink, particularly ink containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), could be absorbed into the body and transported to the lymph nodes. PAHs are known carcinogens, and the immune system treats tattoo ink as a foreign object, leading to inflammation. Over time, this may increase the likelihood of lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system.
This finding is consistent with previous research that has raised concerns about the safety of tattoos. A study conducted by Lund University in Sweden on 11,905 individuals found that people with tattoos had a higher risk of lymphoma, especially if they had received their first tattoo less than two years ago. The study identified the risk as being particularly high for large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.
Dr. Tushar Tayal, a consultant in internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, explained, “Tattoo ink, which may contain PAHs, is injected into the skin, and the body treats it as a foreign object. The immune system becomes activated, and a large part of the ink is transported away from the skin and deposited in the lymph nodes.” The ink’s potential to spread within the body raises concerns about various cancers, including those of the liver, urinary bladder, and blood cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia.
The health risks associated with tattoos do not end with cancer. Australia’s Department of Health conducted a survey on tattoo ink composition and found that 20% of the samples tested contained PAHs, while 83% of black inks tested positive for the carcinogens. Additionally, hazardous chemicals like mercury, barium, copper, and various colourants were found in the inks. These substances can cause a range of health problems, from skin irritation to more severe conditions, including skin cancer.
Dr. Suhail Qureshi, an oncology specialist at Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi, warned that the risk of cancer is not only tied to the presence of carcinogenic chemicals but also to the way tattoo ink is absorbed into the body. “The ink may get absorbed from the dermis (outer layer of the skin) into the lymphatic system, increasing the risk of cancers like liver and blood cancers,” he said.
While not all tattoo inks contain these hazardous chemicals, the lack of regulatory oversight in many countries, including India, makes it difficult for consumers to make informed choices. Dr. Qureshi emphasized that until strict regulations are implemented to control the composition of tattoo inks, the risks will persist.
The growing popularity of tattoos, especially among younger generations, has led to an increase in awareness about the potential health risks associated with the practice. Health experts advise caution and suggest that people be mindful of the possible dangers before opting for body art, particularly if the ink contains harmful chemicals. As more studies explore the links between tattoos and cancer, it is clear that further research and regulation are needed to protect public health.
