¿Do tattoos increase the risk of melanoma? A new study reopens the debate

A recent study brought the possible relationship between tattoos and the development of melanoma back to the table. The research, conducted with data from Swedish health records, indicates that tattooed people have a 29% higher probability of developing melanoma compared to those who do not have tattoos. The analysis was based on thousands of cases registered between 2014 and 2017, supplemented with questionnaires about the age at which the tattoo was done, the body area, and the size of the drawings, with the aim of identifying risk patterns. Scientists point out that some of the ink could move from the skin to the lymph nodes, generating persistent inflammation, a process that some studies link to the formation of skin tumors. However, they emphasize that there is no conclusive evidence that tattoos cause cancer, only a possible association.

Faced with this, experts recommend maintaining periodic dermatological check-ups and reinforcing sun protection, especially in people with tattoos exposed to the sun.