Researchers have found that individuals exposed to tattoo ink are more likely to develop lymph and skin cancer compared to those without tattoos. According to Science Daily, scientists from the University of Southern Denmark and the University of Helsinki in Finland analyzed the health data of about 5,900 twin siblings to investigate the effects of tattoo ink on the body. Examining studies conducted on twins to minimize genetic differences, the researchers revealed that individuals with tattoos are 1.62 times more likely to develop skin cancer than those without tattoos.

The researchers also studied the relationship between tattoo size and cancer risk. They discovered that individuals with tattoos larger than the palm of their hand have a 2.37 times higher risk of skin cancer and a 2.73 times higher risk of lymph cancer compared to those without tattoos. The study found no direct correlation between ink color and cancer development.

The researchers suggested that tiny particles in tattoo ink may enter the bloodstream and accumulate in lymph nodes, potentially increasing cancer risk in the long run by stressing the immune system. They emphasized the need for broader studies to determine whether tattoo ink is considered a standalone risk factor, and called for increased monitoring by regulatory agencies to understand and address these risks. The research findings were published in the “BMC Public Health” journal.