Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores whether tattoos and blood cancer are connected.
“Worldmetrics.org estimates about 21% of the global population has at least one tattoo,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“Tattoos are considered art, self-expression and sometimes even a way to remember significant life events. But concerns about what they could do to your health over time include whether they might cause blood cancers.”
The Science of Tattooing
A small machine is used to apply tattoos. This device rapidly punctures the skin (up to 3,000 times per minute) with a needle. The needle penetrates the skin to a depth of around 0.1-0.2 cm, depositing ink into the second layer of skin, known as the dermis. The dermis is more stable than the outer layer of skin, the epidermis, which sheds over time.
Investigating the Connection Between Tattoos and Cancer
Research into the potential link between tattoos and cancer, particularly blood cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, is ongoing but inconclusive. One concern is that the chemicals in tattoo ink, particularly heavy metals like lead, nickel, chromium, and organic dyes, could migrate from the skin to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes. The lymphatic system is integral to the immune system, and any disruption could theoretically increase the risk of blood cancers.
A study published in 2017 in the journal Scientific Reports revealed tattoo ink particles, including potentially toxic metals, were found in the lymph nodes of tattooed individuals. However, the study did not establish a direct link between these findings and an increased cancer risk. Lancet Oncology reviewed various studies related to health effects associated with tattooing in 2012. They concluded that although some chemicals used in tattoo ink are carcinogenic, there is not enough evidence linking tattoos to leukaemia or any other blood cancer.
AACRJournals.org published an article (Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention) based on a 2015 study. The study investigated whether having tattoos increases the chances of developing different forms of cancer among more than 3000 patients diagnosed with malignant tumours. However, it failed to find any significant relationship between the two variables.
Tattoo Inks and Their Composition
In 2019, the European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) conducted a risk assessment regarding substances detected within tattoo inks.
It was discovered that some (like Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons -PAHs) exhibit genotoxicity besides being classified as potential carcinogens. Certain pigments used for making tattoos, such as Pigment Blue 15 or Pigment Green 7, also contain compounds that can become cancerous after being degraded. The European Union has already imposed stricter rules on certain chemicals in tattoo inks, forbidding those known to be harmful or pose a high health risk.
Understanding the Risks
While there is no strong evidence linking tattoos to blood cancer, it’s essential to recognise that getting a tattoo is not without risk. The most immediate concerns include infections, allergic reactions, and skin disorders like granulomas or keloids. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), allergic reactions to tattoo ink can occur even years after getting a tattoo, with symptoms including redness, swelling, and itching.
Tattoo Safety: What You Can Do
If you’re considering getting a tattoo, there are several steps you can take to minimise potential risks:
Choose a Reputable Tattoo Artist: Ensure your tattoo artist is licensed and works in clean, hygienic conditions using sterilised equipment for each client with fresh ink every time.
Ask About the Ink: Ask your artist which type of ink they use and if it meets safety requirements. Some people may prefer organic or vegan inks containing fewer harmful substances.
Consider Your Health: If you have weakened immunity, past allergic episodes, or keloidal tendencies, consult with a physician before undergoing any procedure. These factors might increase the chances of complications arising.
Keep an Eye on Your Tattoo: After having a tattoo, monitor the site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, heat or pus formation. Also, be aware of changes within the surrounding skin, like lumps growing under the pigmented areas.
The Bottom Line
There is no solid evidence to suggest that tattoos increase the risk of blood cancer. The few studies that have explored this potential link have not found a significant association, but the research is still in its early stages, and long-term effects still need to be fully understood. What is clear is that tattooing involves introducing foreign substances into your body, and while most people do not experience severe health issues as a result, there are risks to consider. If you’re considering getting a tattoo, research, ask questions, and make an informed decision.