STOCKHOLM: Tattooing on the body increases the risk of lymphoma by 21 percent, according to a new study.
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the body’s immune system. With the growing popularity of tattoos around the world, the incidence of malignant lymphoma is increasing.
In a study conducted at Lund University in Sweden, researchers looked at both factors to determine the link between tattoos and lymphoma.
For the study, researchers recruited people with lymphoma (a cancer of the lymphatic system) and compared them with people who did not have the disease, said study lead author Crystal Nelson, who is from the University.
Participants in the study filled out a questionnaire on lifestyle factors that was designed to determine whether or not they had tattoos.
The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. This system maintains balance between body fluids and protects against infection.
There are two major types of cancer affecting the lymphatic system. A non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), which affects 90 percent of all lymphoma patients. and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. There are 40 subtypes of NHL that differ in their rate of growth and spread.
Scientists related to the research said that the purpose of the study is not to prevent people from getting tattoos, but to ensure that the method is safe.
According to the Pew Research Center, 32 percent of American adults have one tattoo and 22 percent have more than one tattoo.
NHL is one of the most common cancers in America and can occur at any age.
