Saturday, March 15th, 2025

This hobby can make you a patient of HIV and blood cancer


Many people are fond of tattooing but do you know that this dirty hobby of yours can become a threat to your life? Doctors have warned that the ink and needle used for tattooing can increase the risk of diseases like hepatitis B, C, HIV and even liver and blood cancer.

There is a lot of craze among the youth about tattoos, especially girls are leading in this matter. Earlier people used to get tattoos on their hands but now people are getting them done in various places. Experts believe that the use of needles in this has the highest risk of contracting infections like hepatitis B, C or even HIV.

Risk of lymphoma

Researchers at Lund University in Sweden (Reference) found that people with tattoos have a higher risk of lymphoma. The risk of lymphoma was highest among those who had gotten their first tattoo less than two years before the tattoo was done. The risks associated with tattoos appear to be highest for large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.

If these 5 symptoms start appearing in the body then it could be cancer

How does tattoo increase the risk of cancer?

How does tattoo increase the risk of cancer?

This is because tattoo ink may contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) – a known carcinogen – which is injected into the skin. A large portion of the ink travels away from the skin to the lymph nodes where it accumulates.

These dangerous chemicals are present in the ink

These dangerous chemicals are present in the ink

Australia’s Department of Health also surveyed the composition of tattoo inks and found mismatches between labeling and ingredients. PAHs were found in 20 percent of samples tested and in 83 percent of black inks. Other dangerous elements found in tattoo inks included heavy metals such as mercury, barium, copper, amines, and various dyes.

Risk of blood cancer too

Risk of blood cancer too

The ink may get absorbed through the outer layer of the skin (dermis) into the body’s lymphatic system and may increase the risk of certain other cancers of the liver, urinary tract as well as blood cancers like lymphoma and leukemia.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It cannot in any way be a substitute for any medicine or treatment. Always consult your doctor for more information.

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