Two women diagnosed with ‘petticoat cancer’ due to wearing saris: Doctors warn in study

Wearing a tightly tied belt on a petticoat (a common practice in traditional sari dressing) can lead to skin cancer, doctors warn in a recent report published in the journal BMJ Case Reports.

statecolloquially referred to as “petticoat cancer”, highlights the risk that many women, especially in rural India, may face due to the friction and pressure exerted by these garments over a long period of time.

The report describes two cases of elderly women who developed Marjolin’s ulcer, a rare but aggressive type of skin cancer caused by prolonged and tight tying of sari waist cords.

Chronic pressure and friction cause repeated inflammation of the skin, which over time can lead to ulceration and, in severe cases, the progression of skin cancer.

It was previously called “sari cancer”. Experts now believe that a tightly tied waist cord is the main culprit.

In the first case, a 70-year-old woman developed a persistent ulcer on her right flank, accompanied by loss of pigmentation. Despite wearing a petticoat underneath, the tight belt around her waist caused severe skin damage, leading to Marjolin’s ulcer, which was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma.

In the second case, a woman over 60 years old who wore LugdaShe, wearing a traditional sari tied straight at the waist with no petticoat, developed a similar ulcer that eventually spread to her lymph nodes.

Marjolin’s ulcers, also known as squamous cell carcinoma (ulcerating skin cancer), often occur when non-healing wounds or areas of chronic irritation. The exact mechanism by which they become cancerous is unclear, but prolonged inflammation and pressure are known to increase the risk of malignant transformation.

“Continuous pressure on the waist leads to skin thinning, erosion, and ultimately ulceration, creating a non-healing wound that can undergo malignant changes,” the report explains.

To reduce this risk, doctors, including those at the Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Uttar Pradesh, advise women to wear looser petticoats or avoid tight girdles. especially if they notice skin changes. Allowing the skin to breathe and heal can prevent complications.

Reflecting on her diagnosis, a 70-year-old patient shared her story: “I wore a tightly wrapped saree for decades, unaware that it could be detrimental to my health. The small skin change turned into a painful, non-healing ulcer, which was eventually diagnosed as skin cancer.”

“The experience was physically and emotionally draining. “I hope my story encourages others to seek medical help if they notice unusual skin changes,” she added.

Her story highlights the importance of awareness of traditional clothing practices and the potential health effects of chronic pressure on the skin.