A rising concern among health professionals is that individuals with tattoos may face increased risks of skin cancer, particularly in sun-drenched locations like Florida. As tattoos can obscure early signs of skin cancer, experts are urging tattooed beachgoers to stay vigilant about their skin health.
Tattoos, which typically consist of colored inks embedded in the skin, can make it challenging to identify changes that signal potential malignancies. According to Dr. Andrew Shapiro, a surgeon at Advanced Surgical Physicians in Wellington, “The larger the tattooed area and the darker the tattoo pigment, the greater the potential for not noticing a concerning lesion.” He emphasizes the importance of regular skin self-exams, especially in tattooed areas, and recommends maintaining a low threshold for seeking a biopsy if any unusual changes occur.
The issue was highlighted by Dr. John Berlin, a dermatologist in Boynton Beach, who recently treated a patient with skin cancer beneath a tattooed area on her arm. The patient experienced bleeding under the tattoo, which is a concerning symptom. “If you have a tattoo, be vigilant with sunscreen and checkups,” Berlin advises. He also recommends getting a skin check before obtaining a tattoo, particularly for those who already have moles.
The appearance of new moles can occur into one’s 30s and 40s, as noted by Dr. Jennifer Tang from the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. She warns against tattooing over existing moles or previously removed ones, citing the difficulty in monitoring their borders. Dermatologists often utilize magnifying tools to assess tattoos, but thick ink can complicate examinations, making early detection of skin cancers like melanoma more challenging.
A study published in JAMA Dermatology in 2020 found that melanomas in tattooed skin are frequently diagnosed at later stages, which can lead to poorer outcomes. The research highlighted that tattoo artists often overlook the risks associated with tattooing over moles, deferring to client preferences regarding location. This is particularly concerning given the rising incidence of melanoma among young adults, a demographic that frequently engages in tattooing.
Tattoos have surged in popularity in recent years, with nearly one-third of adults in the United States reporting they have at least one, according to a March 2023 Pew Research Center survey. Despite the growing prevalence, there is no definitive evidence linking tattoos to skin cancer. Researchers, however, are investigating potential correlations. A 2022 study from Duke University reviewed 160 cases of skin cancer in tattooed individuals and noted an increase in such cases over time, though it did not establish a direct link between tattoos and cancer.
Among the pigments used in tattoos, certain colors, especially black, dark blue, and red, can absorb more ultraviolet (UV) radiation than untattooed skin. This can lead to an increased risk of sunburn in those areas. Dr. Tang advises using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and wearing sun-protective clothing to mitigate these risks.
Research into the chemicals found in tattoo inks is still in its early stages. Some theorists suggest that there may be an increased cancer risk due to the potential migration of tattoo pigments to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes. “Most ink is not regulated, so we don’t know what additional potentially carcinogenic chemicals may be present,” Tang explained.
As tattooed individuals enjoy their time on Florida’s beaches, experts stress the importance of ongoing education regarding skin health. Regular check-ups and proactive skin care can play a crucial role in early detection and prevention of skin cancer, ensuring that body art remains a safe form of expression.
