In recent years, tattoos have become an integral part of urban culture, especially in major European capitals. In Stockholm, nearly half of the residents sport ink on their skin, and this trend is only gaining momentum. However, as tattoos grow in popularity, doctors are noticing a troubling trend: the number of melanoma cases—one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer—has risen significantly. Swedish researchers set out to determine whether there is a direct link between these phenomena.
They analyzed data from nearly three thousand melanoma patients, matching them with a control group by age and gender. The results revealed that people with tattoos are almost a third more likely to develop the disease. The risk was especially high among those who had been tattooed for more than ten years—their likelihood of getting melanoma increased by 67%. Researchers also accounted for factors such as tanning habits and other possible causes to rule out external influences.
Unexpected findings
Interestingly, the number of tattoos or the area of skin they covered did not significantly influence the risk. Even individuals with a single small tattoo faced a higher chance of developing melanoma. This discovery surprised the researchers, as it had previously been believed that the danger might be related to the scale of the body art.
The exact mechanism by which tattoos might provoke mutations in skin cells remains not fully understood. Scientists suggest that the chemical composition of pigments, which gradually break down over time, may cause changes at the cellular level. However, larger-scale studies are needed for definitive conclusions, especially in countries with large populations.
Comparison with tanning
By comparison, the risk of melanoma among tanning enthusiasts increases by 20–100%, depending on the intensity of ultraviolet exposure. However, there’s an important nuance: those who regularly sunbathe actually have lower overall mortality from cancer and cardiovascular diseases than those who avoid the sun. This is attributed to the body’s production of vitamin D and beta-endorphins, which strengthen the immune system and improve mood.
In the case of tattoos, such positive effects have not been observed. Moreover, some studies point to a possible increase in overall mortality among tattooed individuals. This calls into question any direct comparison of risks between tanning enthusiasts and those who prefer tattoos.
Trends in Russia
In Russia, the tattoo trend appeared a bit later, but the consequences were not long in coming. After 2012, when tattoos became a mass phenomenon, the incidence of melanoma increased by almost one and a half times. At the same time, mortality from this disease remains high in the country, as many patients seek medical care only at later stages of the illness.
Unlike Western countries, where early detection enables successful treatment of melanoma, not everyone in Russia undergoes preventive screenings. As a result, thousands of people die from melanoma each year. Experts do not rule out the possibility that the rise in cases is directly linked to the increasing popularity of tattoos.
Questions remain
Despite the data obtained, scientists emphasize that it is too early to draw definitive conclusions about the risks of tattoos. Further research is needed to determine which pigment components may be carcinogenic and how long-term tattoo wear affects skin health.
Nevertheless, the findings of the Swedish study have already triggered a strong reaction within the medical community. It is quite possible that in the coming years, new guidelines will be introduced regarding tattoo safety and quality control.
In case you didn’t know, tattoos are hugely popular in Sweden: in the capital, nearly every other adult has at least one. Local tattoo studios are known for their high standards of hygiene and professionalism, and artists undergo regular safety training. Nonetheless, even with strict quality controls, questions remain about the long-term effects of tattoos on health. In recent years, there has been an active debate in the country about implementing new regulations for pigment manufacturers and introducing tougher controls on their composition.
