Question: Tattoos and Cancer: Can Tattoos Cause Cancer?
Answer: There has been a lot of talk about cancer and tattoos. Tattoos are growing in popularity and many wonder if they are safe or can tattoos cause cancer.
There is no evidence that support tattoos causing cancer. However, dark tattoos can make it difficult to detect moles that may be cancerous like melanoma. This is especially true for people who have "sleeves" (arms covered in tattoos), or those who have many tattoos.
People with tattos need to be careful to examine their skin every month for changes, just like those who aren't tattoed. It just may be more difficult and time consuming, but definitely worth the effort.
Created: 01/09/2005
Reference: Health Services at Columbia University.
