Tattoo art has become popular around the world. For many people, wearing a design on their skin represents a memory, a chapter of life, or a way to express their identity.


However, a study conducted by researchers at Lund University in Sweden raised new questions about the possible long-term health effects of this practice.


The research, published on May 21 in the journal eClinicalMedicine, found an association between having tattoos and a higher relative risk of developing lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.


It is important to clarify something from the outset: the study observed a statistical relationship, but it did not prove that tattoos directly cause cancer. Its findings should be interpreted cautiously and confirmed through further research.


How the tattoo and lymphoma study was conducted


The team worked with data from 11,905 people between the ages of 20 and 60. Within that population, 2,938 cases of lymphoma were identified, and participants without that diagnosis were used as a comparison group.


Participants answered a detailed questionnaire about their tattoos. They were asked how many tattoos they had, when they got their first one, how much of their body surface they covered, and where they were located.


After taking other potentially influential factors into account, the researchers observed that tattooed individuals had a 21% higher relative risk of lymphoma than those without tattoos.


This percentage does not mean that 21% of tattooed people will develop the disease. It refers to a relative increase within an uncommon disease. Individual risk still depends on numerous factors.


The association appeared to be stronger among those who had gotten their first tattoo within the previous two years. Even so, this finding does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.


Does the size or number of tattoos change the risk?


One of the most striking findings was that the extent of tattooed body surface did not appear to increase the risk proportionally.


This contradicts the intuitive idea that a greater amount of ink would necessarily mean a higher risk. The authors noted that this issue needs to be studied with larger samples and longer follow-up periods.


The subtypes observed included diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma. Both affect lymphocytes, cells that are part of the body's defenses.


It is also worth remembering that lymphoma is not a single disease. There are different types, with distinct characteristics, progressions, and treatments. Therefore, it is not appropriate to draw broad conclusions from a single study.


What happens to tattoo ink inside the body


Dr. Christel Nielsen, the study's lead author, explained that the body recognizes ink injected into the skin as a foreign substance. This activates a response from the immune system.


Some pigments may remain in the skin, while others may travel to the lymph nodes and accumulate there. Researchers suggest that prolonged exposure and the associated inflammation could play a role in the observed process.


For now, this is a biological hypothesis that needs to be investigated in greater depth. Not all inks have the same composition, and not everyone reacts in the same way.


Taking care of your health also includes everyday habits. In this regard, you may be interested in reading Sunlight: an ally for our health.


Other known risks of getting a tattoo


The study adds to research examining the long-term effects of tattoos. In addition to this possible association with lymphoma, there are better-documented immediate complications.


The Mayo Clinic warns that, by breaking the skin's protective barrier, a tattoo can make infections more likely if hygiene and sterilization measures are not followed.


Allergic reactions to certain pigments may also occur, even long after getting the tattoo. In some cases, granulomas—small inflammatory lumps around ink particles—or keloids, which are raised and excessive scars, can form.


Some pigments may also cause discomfort during an MRI scan or make certain images harder to interpret. If you have tattoos, it is advisable to mention them before the examination.


How to reduce risks before and after getting a tattoo


If you are thinking about getting a tattoo, you do not need to make your decision out of fear. However, it is wise to make an informed choice and carefully select both the studio and the professional.



  • Check that the establishment complies with local health regulations.

  • Make sure they use new needles, sterilized equipment, and disposable gloves.

  • Ask about the origin and composition of the inks.

  • Follow cleaning and care instructions while the tattoo heals.

  • Do not ignore severe redness, increasing pain, discharge, or fever.


If you have a condition that affects your immune defenses, take immunosuppressive medication, or have a history of serious allergic reactions, consult a health professional before getting a tattoo.


The popularity of tattoos and the need for more research


Tattoos are now part of everyday life. According to data released by the Pew Research Center in August 2023, 32% of the adults surveyed had at least one tattoo, and 22% had more than one.


Their popularity makes it especially important to understand the safety of pigments, their possible cumulative effects, and the way they interact with the immune system.


One study alone is not enough to change general medical recommendations, but it can serve as a sign that more rigorous research is needed. It also reinforces the need to regulate ink composition and monitor its long-term effects.


When it is advisable to see a doctor


Lymphoma is a relatively uncommon disease. Having a tattoo does not mean you will develop it, nor is it, by itself, a reason to have a tattoo removed.


Consult a healthcare professional if you notice swollen lymph nodes that do not go away, persistent fever with no clear cause, intense night sweats, widespread itching, or unintentional weight loss. These symptoms can have many explanations, and only a medical assessment can determine their cause.


The Swedish research raises a relevant question, but it does not yet provide a definitive answer. The best approach is to avoid alarmism, care for your skin, choose safe establishments, and stay informed about new evidence.


To continue exploring habits related to wellbeing, you can also read The delicious food that could help you live beyond 100 years.