What is Saree and Petticoat Cancer? Is It Real? How to Prevent It?

A recent medical study has raised concerns about the potential health risks of wearing sarees, particularly the tight waist cord used to secure the petticoat. According to the report published in BMJ Case Reports, this traditional way of dressing could increase the risk of skin cancer in women. Researchers have identified that the pressure from the tightly tied waist cord and the friction caused by the petticoat could lead to skin damage over time, which, in rare cases, may result in skin cancer.

What is Saree and Petticoat Cancer?

"Saree cancer," also known as "petticoat cancer" or "saree melanosis," refers to a group of skin conditions linked to the regular wearing of sarees. The condition is characterised by dermatological issues, particularly around the waist area, that may develop into skin cancer after prolonged exposure to the tight-fitting petticoat and continuous friction in that region.

Causes of Saree Cancer

• Chronic friction: The tight waist string and petticoat cause constant rubbing on the skin.
• Pressure from saree pleats: The daily pressure from the pleats of the saree at the waist adds to the irritation.
• Skin irritation: Continuous rubbing and the buildup of moisture or sweat exacerbate skin problems.
• Lack of sunlight exposure: The area around the waist is often covered and shielded from sunlight, reducing the skin's ability to heal.

Symptoms of Saree Cancer

• Hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin around the waist area.
• Skin thickening: The skin may become tougher and more leathery.
• Rough, scaly areas: Formation of patches that may appear dry and rough.
• Progression to squamous cell carcinoma: In severe cases, prolonged irritation and damage can lead to squamous cell cancer, a type of skin cancer.

Prevention Tips for Saree/Petticoat Cancer

• Avoid wearing excessively tight petticoats or waistbands.
• Rotate the position of the saree knot to prevent consistent pressure on the same spot.
• Choose soft, breathable fabrics for petticoats.
• Maintain good hygiene to reduce irritation.
• Regularly check the waist area for any signs of irritation or changes in skin condition.
• When possible, opt for looser clothing to reduce pressure on the skin.

Expert Opinion on Saree Cancer

Dr Darshana Rane, Consultant Medical Oncologist at HCG Cancer Centre in Borivali, explains that saree cancer is a rare but notable condition caused by chronic irritation from a tightly tied petticoat cord. She also mentions that similar skin conditions have been observed in women who wear churidars and in men who wear dhotis, indicating that such conditions are not exclusive to saree wearers. The key takeaway is the importance of awareness and preventive care, especially for women who wear sarees daily.

Real-life Cases of Saree/Petticoat Cancer

In one reported case, a 70-year-old woman developed pigmentation loss and a chronic ulcer on her right side, which was linked to the tight waist cord of her saree. This injury led to the development of a Marjolin ulcer, which was later diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma. Another case involved a woman in her late 60s who developed a similar ulcer while wearing a traditional lugda, a type of saree tied at the waist without a petticoat. This ulcer eventually spread to her lymph nodes, highlighting the potential seriousness of the condition.

While cases of saree or petticoat cancer are rare, experts stress the importance of being mindful of prolonged skin irritation and the potential long-term risks it may pose. Awareness and simple preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of developing such conditions.