Tattoos throughout history
Tattoos have been present in humanity since ancient times in various cultures. For many years, in the West, tattoos were seen negatively and associated with prisoners, sailors and people of low status. However, in recent years, tattoos have gained popularity and become a rising trend. Currently, in the United States, almost a third of the population has at least one tattoo, according to a survey conducted in 2023 by the Pew Research Center.
The possible risk of malignant lymphoma
A study conducted by researchers at Lund University in Sweden has found a possible link between tattoos and a type of cancer called malignant lymphoma. According to this study, tattooed people have a 21% higher risk of lymphoma compared to non-tattooed people. However, it should be noted that this is an association and a direct relationship between tattoos and malignant lymphoma has not been established.
Possible causes and skepticism
Researchers speculate that a possible cause of this increased risk could be the ink used in tattoos, as it may contain chemicals considered carcinogenic. In addition, it has been observed that the ink pigment can be deposited in the lymph nodes, although this aspect has not been thoroughly studied. Notably, oncologists have expressed skepticism about this study, noting that tattoos are not a known risk factor for malignant lymphoma.
In summary, tattoos have experienced an increase in popularity in recent years, but there are studies that have linked this practice to a possible increase in the risk of malignant lymphoma. However, it should be noted that this is an association and that more research is needed to better understand this possible relationship.