New research links tattoos to increased melanoma skin cancer risk - Video

Tattoos might seem like harmless self-expression, but could they secretly raise your skin cancer risk? A new Swedish study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology found tattooed individuals had a 29% higher risk of melanoma-a deadly skin cancer tied to UV exposure-compared to those without tattoos.

Melanoma arises from pigment cells and spreads aggressively, unlike squamous cell carcinoma from surface skin cells, which is less severe. Both link to sun damage, but tattoos may trigger unique risks through ink particles migrating to lymph nodes, potentially causing chronic inflammation that fuels cancer.

Researchers conducted a case-control study using Sweden's national registries. They identified 2,880 melanoma cases (aged 20-60, diagnosed 2017) and 2,821 squamous cell carcinoma cases (2014-2017), matching each to three cancer-free controls by age and sex. Questionnaires went to participants, capturing tattoo details like presence, size, location, age, and timing relative to cancer diagnosis. Responses came from 5,695 in the melanoma arm and 6,151 in the squamous cell arm. Analyses adjusted for sun exposure, tanning beds, smoking, skin type, education, income, and more to minimize bias.

Tattooed people showed 29% higher melanoma odds, strongest for tattoos over 10 years old, though smaller sample sizes urge caution. No link emerged with squamous cell carcinoma, and tattoo size didn't amplify risk—surprising given more ink exposure.

Tattoo ink may not stay put; immune responses transport particles systemically, possibly sparking inflammation linked to cancer. While causation isn't proven and one study isn't definitive, those with tattoos should stay vigilant: use sunscreen, skip tanning, and monitor moles. Future research on ink types and UV interactions is crucial as tattoos grow mainstream.

REFERENCE: Emelie Rietz Liljedahl; Kari Nielsen; Malin Engfeldt; Anna Saxne Jöud; Christel Nielsen; Does tattoo exposure increase the risk of cutaneous melanoma? A population-based case-control study; European Journal of Epidemiology, 2025; DOI: 10.1007/s10654-025-01326-6