A new study has raised eyebrows by suggesting a possible link between tattoos and a higher risk of developing malignant lymphoma—a form of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system.
Published in eClinicalMedicine, the research found that people with tattoos had a 21% higher chance of being diagnosed with lymphoma. While the study only points to a correlation—not a direct cause-and-effect relationship—it adds to the growing conversation around how tattoos may impact long-term health.
Tattoos have become increasingly common, with surveys showing a steady rise in popularity over the last decade. This trend has prompted scientists to examine potential health effects more closely.
The researchers behind the study believe their findings could have implications for public health, though experts urge caution in how the results are interpreted.
A Closer Look at the Study
Previous research had hinted at a possible connection between tattoo ink and cancer. Certain chemicals found in ink—such as primary aromatic amines—have been classified as carcinogenic or potentially carcinogenic. However, this classification typically applies when these substances are inhaled, ingested, or applied topically in high concentrations.
how tattoo ink travels: Some studies have shown that tattoo pigments are filtered by the lymphatic system and stored in the lymph nodes, which are also a common site for lymphoma development.
With this in mind, researchers in Sweden conducted a study using the Swedish National Cancer Register. They looked at approximately 12,000 individuals between the ages of 20 and 60 who were diagnosed with malignant lymphoma from 2007 to 2017.
what they found: Around 20% of those surveyed had tattoos. Statistically, people with tattoos were found to have a 21% higher likelihood of developing lymphoma. Surprisingly, the size or number of tattoos didn’t affect the risk level.
timing matters: The increased risk was most pronounced in individuals who had gotten a tattoo within two years of their lymphoma diagnosis. This risk gradually declined over the next several years before rising again after 11 years.
Lymphoma is a cancer of the immune system and includes two main types: non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is more prevalent, and the rarer Hodgkin lymphoma.
What Do Experts Say?
Despite the headlines, medical experts are urging people not to panic. Simply having a tattoo doesn’t mean you are destined to develop blood cancer.
known lymphoma risks: Lymphoma is influenced by several environmental and biological factors. Known risk factors include a weakened immune system and exposure to certain chemicals like benzene or specific herbicides.
scientific skepticism: According to leading oncologists, the study doesn't provide enough evidence to declare a strong connection between tattoos and lymphoma. The link between cancer and other environmental triggers—such as smoking or radiation—is well-documented. But the same level of certainty does not apply to tattoos.
inconsistencies in findings: Some medical professionals also pointed out inconsistencies in the study. For example, it’s unclear why the highest risks appeared both shortly after getting a tattoo and more than a decade later. Moreover, the absence of a relationship between tattoo size and cancer risk raises further questions.
not the first study: Earlier studies had investigated similar questions and did not find a link between tattoos and lymphoma.
the bottom line: While the study opens the door to more questions about the long-term effects of tattoo ink, most people with tattoos will never develop lymphoma. Experts agree more research is needed before drawing definitive conclusions.
