The danger came from unexpected places: millions of people were at risk of developing lymphoma (4 photos)

The popularity of tattoos continues to grow in all corners of the world. However, scientists have found that, regardless of size, they significantly increase the risk of developing a dangerous type of cancer.





In recent years, tattoos have become a popular form of self-expression among a large number of people. They adorn the bodies of millions, telling unique stories or displaying beautiful designs to others. However, a new study from Lund University in Sweden has found a link between tattoos and an increased risk of lymphoma. Research shows that people with tattoos are much more likely to develop this type of cancer, regardless of the size of the tattoo.

Dr Christel Nielsen, lead author of the study, noted the cultural significance of tattoos, while emphasizing the need for safety precautions. "People are likely to want to continue to express their identity through tattoos, so it's important that we as a society make sure it's safe to do so," she said. This opinion highlights that tattoos are growing in popularity and have wider health implications.



Lymphoma, a cancer that affects the lymphatic system, was found to be more common among tattooed people. The study identified diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma and follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma as the most common types. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma accounts for about 4% of all cancers in the United States alone, where as many as 80,620 new cases are expected this year, according to the American Cancer Society.





The ten-year study, published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, involved 11,905 people aged 20 to 60 years, including 2,938 people diagnosed with lymphoma. Participants provided detailed information about their tattoos, and the risk was found to be highest among those who had gotten their first tattoo within the past two years.

The rise in tattoo prevalence is clear: According to an August 2023 Pew Research Center survey, 32% of American adults have at least one tattoo, and 22% have more than one. Tattoos are more common among women than among men. Despite this widespread use, the FDA does not regulate tattoo inks and pigments, leaving that responsibility to state and local governments.



Doctors have also expressed concerns about the carcinogenicity of tattoo ink. Dr. Jeanette Nesheiwat, a board-certified physician, noted that the immune system reacts to the ink, which can lead to sudden and serious health problems. The growing acceptance of celebrity-influenced tattoos further highlights the need for careful research into their health effects.

As the global tattoo market is projected to grow significantly, it is critical to conduct comprehensive research into the long-term health effects. The Lund University researchers advocate for further study of the relationship between tattoos and various health outcomes, saying the current findings are just the beginning of understanding the global picture of how they affect us.