Inked Agency: A Qualitative Study on the Role of Tattoos in Response to Breast Cancer

This study extended research on the intersection of art and health by exploring the role of tattoos in response to breast cancer. It aimed to enhance knowledge regarding the choice of tattooing in how people process their breast cancer and how that impacts their survivorship experiences. Nine women participated in this qualitative study, ranging in age from 42 to 65 years old. At the time of the interview, seven participants had at least one tattoo in response to their diagnosis, with four of these women having more than one and three women planning on getting additional tattoos in response to their diagnosis. From the analysis, an overarching meta-theme, Inked Agency , emerged along with key themes under that meta-theme: It was for me, about me; Creating Spaces in which to Make Choices; and Commemorating, Celebrating, and Remembering . These results provide support for the use of tattooing, or tattoo design, as having potential therapeutic value for people who survive cancer.