Although it’s rare, petticoat cancer has been raising concerns in the medical community. This condition is linked to the practice of tying saree petticoats tightly around the waist. Over habitual wear, the constant pressure and friction on the waistline can lead to serious skin complications, one of which can be cancer.
The tight cord of the petticoat often leads to frictional dermatitis and loss of blood supply for long hours. Not to mention our common fungal infection due to constant wetness from the sweat. Chronic inflammation for prolonged periods due to acny skin condition has a high predisposition to end up in squamous cell carcinoma.
What causes Petticoat cancer?
The main cause of saree cancer lies in the prolonged tightness of pressure. This pressure irritates the skin and restricts blood flow, leading to:
- Dermatosis: Chronic skin irritation that manifests as redness, rashes, or thickened skin.
- Marjolin’s Ulcers: Persistent, non-healing ulcers that can progress to skin cancer if left untreated.
- Pigmentation and Thickening: Long-term friction and pressure can discolor and harden the skin around the waist.
These conditions are not just limited to women who wear sarees but also to men who wear dhoties tied tightly for extended periods. In 2011, doctors reported two such cases in the Journal of the Indian Medical Association.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mounika Ketha said, “Frictional dermatitis, fungal infections etc, can cause chronic inflammation that may lead to skin cancer and Squamous cell carcinoma is an aggressive one that is quite common in our country”.
The culprit of this condition is the petticoat and not the saree. The inner skirt worn underneath to anchor the saree to is tied too tight around the same place repeatedly. This continuous wear and tear of the skin results in scaling, and pigmentation of the skin leads to ulceration and subsequently turns into malignancy.
Symptoms to watch out for?
- Red, itchy patches around the waist area
- Dark hyperpigmented margins
- Formation of ulcers
- Hardened skin or lumps
Tips for caution
- Opting for looser and breathable fabrics.
- Avoid tying your petticoat too tightly
- Regularly monitor your skin for any changes
- Consult a board-certified dermatologist to detect early signs
