Link Between Tattoos and Hepatitis C

Think Before You Ink

Health care researchers are advising people to research and think twice about where they get their tattoo. This after a study found a strong link between having a tattoo and hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C is disease that affects the liver and can eventually lead to death. Hepatitis C is a blood-borne disease that was most commonly spread through blood transfusion before 1992. It is also common amongst people who shared needles and inject drugs. The disease can be silent for many years before eventually over-taking the liver and causing death.

In the new study, it was observed that people with hepatitis C were 4 times more likely to have a tattoo, even when all other major risk factors were taken into account.

The Alliance of Professional Tattooists advises artists to use disposable gloves and disposable needles.

Some tattoo shops may take short-cuts and re-use needles or other devices which may pass viruses (hepatitis C) from one individual to another.

Do your research before you choose a tattoo shop. When you go, make sure you ask and observe that they use disposable needles and gloves.

If you have a tattoo and would like to remove your tattoo, Pristine Laser Center is here to help. We are the premier laser clinic in Orlando using multiple lasers to get rid of almost any tattoo. Call 407-494-0404 or email us to schedule your FREE consultation.