Warning of risks in body-piercing and tattoos

The Eastern Health Board's chief executive officer, Mr Pat McLoughlin, has warned of the dangers of body-piercing and tattooing…

The Eastern Health Board's chief executive officer, Mr Pat McLoughlin, has warned of the dangers of body-piercing and tattooing, pointing out that the procedures could lead to the spread of blood-borne infections or even skin cancer.

The greatest risk of cancer came from tongue-piercing, as most tongues became swollen after puncturing. "There is the potential to interfere with the airway or swallowing during this period," he said. Severe infections could occur in the tongue and mouth after piercing and there was a very real risk of choking where jewellery worn on the tongue became detached.

He confirmed that several benign and malignant lesions had occurred in tattoos. "Up to 1997, eight documented cases of malignant melanoma occurring in tattoos had been reported in English-language literature," he said.

The warning was issued in response to a query at the EHB's monthly meeting by Cllr Eric Byrne, who asked if the practice of this "growing form of art" was medically safe. Mr Byrne also wished to know if practitioners should be licensed. Mr McLoughlin said that licensing was not necessary, however, the drawing up of guidelines in relation to tattooing was under consideration.