Citation

Armstrong ML, Murphy KP, Sallee A, Watson MG. Mil. Med. 2000; 165(2): 135-141.

Affiliation

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing, Lubbock 79430, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Association of Military Surgeons of the United States)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10709376

Abstract

Primary prevention is a priority for medical personnel. Despite societal popularity and a long association of the military with tattooing, little is known about the tattooed Army soldier, which hampers primary health planning. Basic recruits and advanced individual training students (N = 1,835) at one mid-western military installation completed a questionnaire about any tattooing experiences. Almost half (48%) of the soldiers were serious/very serious about getting a tattoo, with 31% stating that there were "no reasons" to keep them from getting a tattoo. More than one-third (36%) were tattooed, with 22% possessing three or more tattoos. Many soldiers (64%) entered the military with the tattoos. Limited use (15%) of alcohol and/or drugs before tattooing was reported. Findings included a high incidence of tattooing, a strong determination to obtain tattoos, the possession of tattoos for self-identity reasons, and the supportive role of friends. Reported procedural bleeding (76%) documents the potential for blood-borne disease transmission. These results confirm the need for targeted health education regarding the safety and potential risks of tattooing.

Language: en