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Researchers have dubbed this condition “petticoat cancer,” citing several cases in which tight-fitting petticoats directly caused skin cancer. They recommend women choose looser clothing to reduce the risk.
Researchers have warned against tight petticoats as it can cause constant friction and increased pressure on the skin. (Representative/News18 Hindi)
The sari holds a prized place among traditional Indian garments and is adopted by women across the country. While fabrics and draping styles may vary across states and regions, the sari remains a staple in most Indian women's wardrobe. However, a recent research finding might give saree enthusiasts pause.
A research conducted by doctors in Bihar and Maharashtra has brought to light a worrying issue. Their findings suggest that a significant number of women in India could be at risk of developing cancer from wearing saris. This particular type of cancer affects the skin and its connection to sarees may seem puzzling.
Doctors' research has revealed that many Indian women fit their petticoats tightly when wearing a sari. This practice puts considerable pressure on the abdominal area, a point of great concern for researchers. They have warned against tying tight petticoats as it can cause constant friction and increased pressure on the skin. Over long periods, this seemingly harmless habit could become a serious health risk and lead to skin cancer.
Researchers have called this condition “petticoat cancer” and have cited numerous cases in which women developed skin cancer as a direct result of wearing tight-fitting petticoats. They have advised women to opt for looser-fitting clothing whenever possible.
When wearing a sari, they recommended tying the petticoat loosely to mitigate the risk. Basically, the way a saree is worn can significantly influence the potential of developing this type of cancer.
According to India Today, doctors have described two cases of older women who developed this type of skin cancer, called Marjolin's ulcer, in a recent report published in BMJ Case Reports.
In the first case, a 70-year-old woman developed an ulcer on the right side with loss of pigmentation. The tight lacing of her petticoat caused long-term damage to the skin, resulting in a Marjolin ulcer.
“I wore a very tight sari for decades, not knowing that it could harm my health. A small change in the skin turned into a painful ulcer that did not heal and was eventually diagnosed as skin cancer,” the 70-year-old was quoted as saying by India Today.
“This experience has been physically and emotionally exhausting. “I hope my story encourages others to seek early medical attention if they notice unusual skin changes,” he added.
In the second case, a woman in her 60s, wearing a lugda (a sari tied directly at the waist without a petticoat), developed a similar ulcer that eventually spread to her lymph nodes.
