American oncologists have reached a surprising conclusion that contradicts the findings of many previous studies. Their analysis showed that people with two or more tattoos are diagnosed with melanoma—one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer—less frequently.

Previously, medical professionals have repeatedly cited tattoos as a potential risk factor for developing cancer. For example, Danish researchers using twin studies confirmed that individuals with permanent body art are more likely to experience lymph node tumors and skin cancer. Swedish doctors have also reported an increased risk of malignant lymphoma among people with tattoos.

The study by American specialists from the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah aimed to determine whether there is a link between having tattoos and a predisposition to melanoma. The scientists hypothesized that, due to the possible presence of toxic components in tattoo inks, people with multiple tattoos would have a higher risk of developing this type of cancer.

Earlier scientific work indicated that over time, the chemicals in tattoo inks can break down and form carcinogenic compounds that were not originally present. It is also known that getting tattoos can trigger inflammatory reactions, and such processes are often associated with an increased risk of cancer.

To find out whether tattoos actually increase the risk of melanoma, American oncologists analyzed data from 7,000 Utah residents. The study included 1,167 people with invasive melanoma or melanoma in situ (an early stage where cancer cells have not yet spread beyond the outer layer of skin and are easier to remove). The control group consisted of 5,835 participants who closely matched the cancer group in key characteristics. The analysis used a multifactor logistic regression method.

The results were paradoxical: among people with two or more tattoos, cases of melanoma were less common. In contrast, those who had only one tattoo were more likely to develop the disease, especially the in situ variant.

For individuals who had undergone four or more tattoo procedures, as well as those with three or more large tattoos, the risk of melanoma was 56% and 74% lower, respectively, compared to those who had never gotten tattoos. Additionally, participants who got their first tattoo before the age of 20 had a 52% lower likelihood of receiving such a cancer diagnosis than those without tattoos.

The authors of the study urged caution in interpreting these findings. In their opinion, important factors that were not accounted for in the analysis may have influenced the results. It is likely that these conclusions do not apply to other types of cancer, for which previous studies have shown the opposite correlation.

It is possible that people with multiple tattoos take better care of their skin and protect it more diligently from the sun. Specialists also suggest that tattoos might create a physical barrier that blocks ultraviolet radiation, or that the process of getting tattoos could trigger an immune response that helps fight precancerous cells.

Oncologists emphasized that further research is needed to fully understand this complex issue. Their article was published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.