New Delhi: Tattoos are often considered to be a form of self-expression. It is a form of art which several people end up doing too much of. While the arms, back and legs are common spots to get tattoos – but surprisingly, some people like getting their entire body inked, even the eyes and genitals. Doctors advise against it citing risk of contracting sexually-transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS, but as it turns out, there are other risks involved here as well – according to a study, tattoos, irrespective of small or large they are, they can increase the risk of a type of blood cancer, known as lymphoma, by 21%.
How do tattoos increase cancer risk?
According to a Swedish study, tattoos can contribute to a heightened risk of cancer of the lymphatic system. Researchers at the Lund University found that this should not already discourage people from getting inked altogether as more research will be needed to affirm the same. Experts said that it is known that when tattoo ink is injected in the skin, the immune system is activated as it perceives it to be a forgein substance that can wreak health. A large part of the ink is transported to the lymph nodes where it is deposited.
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer which affects the immune system, specifically the white blood cells. Researchers at Lund University evaluated the link between lymphoma and tattoos and discovered that people who get inked are 21% more likely to develop the disease. For this, experts relied on data from Swedish National Authority registries which indentified all people who were diagnosed with this disease. It was found that out of the 11905 peopole, 2938 were diagnosed with lymphoma from 2007-2011.
Participants were asked to fill a questionnaire about lifestyle factors to ascertain whether or not they got a tattoo. The study was published in the eClinicalMedicine journal. After taking factors like smoking and age into count, it was found that people with tattoos were 21% more likely to develop the disease; and these results were regardless of the size of the tattoo. These can trigger low-grade inflammation in the body which eventually leads to cancer. Study’s authors also noted that people who get tattoos at a young age are exposed to ink for a long time in their life.
According to a Swedish study, tattoos can contribute to a heightened risk of cancer of the lymphatic system. Researchers at the Lund University found that this should not already discourage people from getting inked altogether as more research will be needed to affirm the same. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
