The saree, a symbol of grace and tradition, has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries. Worn by women across the country, it is often regarded as a timeless garment that transcends generations.
However, a recent study conducted by doctors in Bihar and Maharashtra has raised alarming concerns about the health risks associated with wearing a saree, particularly the practice of tying tight petticoats.
What Is "Petticoat Cancer"?
In their research, doctors have highlighted a condition they have termed "petticoat cancer," linked to the tight tying of petticoats worn under sarees. The problem lies in the excessive pressure exerted on the abdominal area when the petticoat is fastened too tightly. This pressure, over time, can cause constant friction against the skin, leading to skin damage. In some cases, this damage escalates into a rare form of skin cancer known as ‘Marjolin ulcers’.
The cases that raised concerns
The findings are based on a series of cases where women developed skin cancer directly linked to the tightness of their petticoats. In one case, a 70-year-old woman from Bihar noticed a minor skin change on her right side that soon became a painful, non-healing ulcer. After seeking medical advice, she was diagnosed with Marjolin ulcer, a type of skin cancer often caused by chronic skin irritation.
The woman recalled, “I wore a tightly wrapped saree for decades, unaware it could harm my health. A minor skin change turned into a painful, non-healing ulcer, eventually diagnosed as skin cancer." Her experience has been both physically and emotionally taxing, and she has since urged others to seek medical help if they notice any unusual skin changes.
In another case, a woman in her late 60s, who wore a ‘lugda’ (a traditional saree tied directly at the waist without an underskirt), developed a similar ulcer. In her case, the cancer spread to her lymph nodes, further complicating her health.
How is it a risk?
The research suggests that the pressure and friction caused by tight petticoats can damage the skin's surface. Over time, this constant irritation may lead to the development of chronic ulcers, which, if left untreated, can evolve into skin cancer. The condition is believed to be particularly dangerous because it may go unnoticed for years, with the initial signs appearing as seemingly harmless skin changes.
Doctors warn that the risk is compounded by the fact that many women wear sarees daily, often without realizing the long-term effects of wearing tight-fitting clothing.
What's the solution?
The medical experts behind the research recommend a simple yet effective change: opting for looser petticoats. By reducing the pressure on the abdominal area and allowing the skin to breathe, women can minimize the risk of developing "petticoat cancer." Additionally, doctors advise women to be vigilant about any skin changes in areas affected by tight clothing and to seek early medical intervention if they notice anything unusual.
As with any health concern, early detection and preventive measures are key. If you notice any unusual skin changes, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for timely advice and care.