Tattoos and Piercings: No Increased Risk for Hepatitis B or C
Author Information
Author(s): Urbanus Anouk T., van den Hoek Anneke, Boonstra Albert, van Houdt Robin, de Bruijn Lotte J., Heijman Titia, Coutinho Roel A., Prins Maria
Primary Institution: Public Health Service, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
Do tattooing and piercing increase the risk of HBV and HCV infections?
Conclusion
People with multiple tattoos and/or piercings in the Netherlands do not have an increased risk for HBV or HCV infections.
Supporting Evidence
- Only 4.2% of participants were found to be anti-HBc positive.
- The prevalence of HCV was low at 0.2%.
- Tattoo-related variables were not significantly associated with HBV or HCV.
- Older age and being born in an HBV-endemic country were associated with HBV positivity.
Takeaway
Having lots of tattoos or piercings doesn't make you more likely to get certain liver infections in the Netherlands.
Methodology
Participants were recruited from tattoo conventions, shops, and an STI clinic, and tested for HBV and HCV.
Potential Biases
Potential residual confounding from other risk factors not accounted for.
Limitations
The study may not apply to populations with high HBV/HCV prevalence or countries without hygiene guidelines.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 28 years, with 43.1% male participants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 2.64%–6.46%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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