Study Links Tattoos to Increased Risks of Skin Cancer and Lymphoma

Research from Danish and Finnish scientists suggests tattoo ink particles may trigger chronic inflammation in lymph nodes, potentially raising cancer risks.

A study of over 5,900 Danish twins found tattooed individuals had higher rates of skin cancer and lymphoma compared to those without tattoos.
Large tattoos, defined as bigger than a palm, were associated with significantly higher cancer risks, with lymphoma rates nearly tripling in this group.
Tattoo ink particles migrate to lymph nodes, where they may cause chronic inflammation, potentially weakening immune response and increasing abnormal cell growth.
Black ink, the most common tattoo color, contains carbon black, a substance classified as possibly cancer-causing by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to understand the biological mechanisms behind these findings and to explore safer tattooing practices.