In the 1971 classic film "Pavitra Bandham," the song "Paccha Bottu Cherigipodule" expressed love through the symbol of a tattoo. While the song celebrated romance, we need to talk about the serious health risks that come with tattoos today. Unlike the song's romantic view, modern tattoos can bring dangerous health issues like hepatitis, HIV, and cancer. Let's dive into the potential health risks of tattoos.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Tattoos have been a symbol of self-expression and artistry for a long time. People get tattoos to express love, passion, or even as a fashion statement. From celebrities to common folks, the trend of getting intricate designs inked on their bodies has grown. However, this trend comes with several health warnings from medical experts.
Health Risks from Tattooing
Doctors warn that the tattooing process can transmit diseases like hepatitis B, C, and HIV, mainly due to contaminated needles. Suhail Qureshi, Additional Director & Unit Head – Medical Oncology at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, emphasizes that non-professional tattoo artists using infected needles can spread these infections.
Researchers from Lund University in Sweden found that people with tattoos are at a higher risk of developing lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system. This risk is especially significant for those who get their first tattoo before the age of two years old. The study linked tattoos to an increased chance of large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.
Tattoo inks often contain harmful substances like Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are potential carcinogens. Tushar Tayal, a consultant at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, explains that when PAHs are injected into the skin, the body's immune response can cause ink particles to accumulate in lymph nodes, raising cancer risk.
Recent surveys by the Australian Department of Health have revealed alarming results about the composition of tattoo inks. Many black inks tested contained significant levels of PAHs and heavy metals like mercury and copper, which can lead to skin issues and cancers.
Suhail Qureshi notes that the absorption of ink from the skin into the lymphatic system can contribute to cancers affecting the liver, bladder, and blood.
Lack of Regulation
Despite these findings, many countries, including India, have lax regulations regarding tattoo ink composition. There are no strict guidelines to ensure the safety of tattoo inks. Until regulatory frameworks are established to guarantee the safety of tattoo inks, individuals should be cautious when considering getting inked.
Conclusion
While tattoos remain a popular form of self-expression, it's crucial to weigh the potential health risks against the desire for body art. Raising awareness about the dangers associated with tattoos can help reduce these risks. Medical experts advise prioritizing health and well-being over the allure of tattoos.
