Saree cancer: The hidden health risk of tight waist cords

A recent report published in BMJ Case Reports has raised alarming concerns about a potential health risk linked to traditional saree dressing practices. Wearing a tightly tied waist cord on an underskirt, commonly seen in saree attire, has been associated with an increased risk of developing skin cancer, particularly a rare and aggressive type called Marjolin ulcers.

Colloquially known as "petticoat cancer," this condition arises from the chronic friction and pressure exerted by tight garments over time. The report highlights the case of two older women who developed squamous cell carcinoma due to prolonged use of tight saree waist cords. This discovery emphasises the importance of awareness and preventive measures to reduce skin damage and the risk of skin cancer among women, especially in rural India.





Saree cancer: A growing concern

Previously referred to as "saree cancer," experts now recognize that the tight waist cord is the primary culprit. The chronic pressure from the waist cord causes the skin to thin, erode, and eventually ulcerate, leading to a non-healing wound that may transform into cancer over time.

The recent report in BMJ Case Reports brought attention to two cases of older women who developed Marjolin ulcers due to the tight binding of saree waist cords. These ulcers, also known as squamous cell carcinoma, typically form in areas with chronic irritation or non-healing wounds. In both cases, prolonged pressure from the saree’s waist cord caused severe skin damage, leading to cancerous growths.

In one case, a 70-year-old woman developed a persistent ulcer on her right side, accompanied by pigmentation loss. Despite wearing a petticoat, the tight waist cord caused continuous skin damage, ultimately resulting in a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma. The second case involved a woman in her late 60s who wore a lugda, a traditional saree style tied directly at the waist, which resulted in a similar ulcer that spread to her lymph nodes.





Causes, symptoms, and prevention of saree cancer

To reduce the risk of skin cancer, experts advise women to wear looser petticoats or avoid tight waist cords, particularly if they notice any changes in their skin. Ensuring the skin has room to breathe and heal is crucial in preventing complications.


Causes of saree cancer

• Constant friction from the tight petticoat or waist cord
• Regular pressure from the saree’s pleats
• Chronic skin irritation
• Lack of sun exposure to the waist area
• Accumulation of sweat and moisture

Symptoms of saree cancer

• Darkening (hyperpigmentation) around the waist
• Skin thickening
• Development of rough, scaly patches
• In some cases, progression to squamous cell carcinoma

Prevention tips for saree cancer

• Avoid tight petticoats or waistbands
• Rotate the position of the saree’s knot
• Use soft fabric for petticoats
• Maintain good hygiene
• Regularly examine the waist area
• Opt for looser clothing when possible