Tattoo, piercing, and adolescent tobacco consumption

Abstract

The objective of the study was to evaluate the link between tattoos and/or piercings and young people's tobacco consumption. Methods: A total of 2587 students (1168 females and 1419 males) were asked about tattoos, piercings, and tobacco consumption. Results: Young men and young girls who had tattoos and/or wore piercings were more likely to report smoking behavior, earlier smoking behavior, and higher cigarette consumption per day. It was also found that both with men and women, the combined effects of piercings and tattoos were associated with an increase in smoking behavior. Conclusion: Piercings and/or tattoos as well as combined piercings and tattoos appeared as markers of tobacco consumption. Such marks could serve as signs for educators, parents, and physicians. © 2013 by Walter de Gruyter Berlin Boston 2013.