Swedish study shows tattoos could be risk factor for lymphoma

CINCINNATI (WKRC) – A new report is now raising concerns about tattoos and a possible connection to cancer. Now oncologists are sharing what they want those with tattoos to know about their potential risks.

The research comes from Lund University in Sweden. It links tattoos to an increased risk of at least one type of cancer. It found tattoos could be a risk factor for cancer of the lymphatic system – or lymphoma.

“It’s a cancer that starts in the lymph nodes, and it can spread from lymph node to lymph node,” said Dr. Randy Drosick, a medical oncologist and hematologist.

As cases of lymphoma keep rising, Dr. Drosick said it’s concerning.

“Cancers and lymphomas in particular are a combination of genetics and environment,” he said.

In the study, researchers looked at 11,905 people. 2,938 had lymphoma. They were between the ages of 20 and 60 years old. They were compared to a similar control group. Other cancer influences, such as age and smoking, were taken into consideration.

Researchers found the risk of developing lymphoma was 21% higher in the tattooed group, compared to those who were not. Researchers speculate it may be due to inflammation linked to tattooing, rather than the tattoo itself.

“I don’t think that’s proven, but I think that’s a relatively rational explanation. When we look at lymphoma with pesticides and things like that, we have a risk. That’s how we think it affects your immune system,” Dr. Drosick said.

He said those who are considering a tattoo need to weigh the pros and cons.

“I think an explanation of the risk is appropriate. I think explaining that there may be a causal relationship with this that’s not definitive, but postulated, is an appropriate informed consent for this,” Dr. Drosick said.

Researchers said more studies need to be done to verify these results. They did conclude in this study that the size of the tattoo did not matter – but researchers said they do not know why.