Did you know that skin cancer may result from years of wearing a dhoti or petticoat tied too tightly? Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist from Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, brought attention to this concerning connection and clarified how persistent friction between fabric and skin might lead to major health problems.
Dhotis, Sarees, and Skin Cancer Risk
According to Dr. Kumar, those who spend a lot of time wearing sarees and dhotis run the danger of getting depigmentation, scarring, skin glazing, and even cancerous alterations.
He stated on X, “The petticoat is typically tied very tightly around the waist with a cord.” The petticoat’s tight string frequently causes dermatoses linked to persistent friction and maceration, which can lead to dermatitis and depigmentation. Rarely, squamous cell carcinoma may occur as a result of ongoing friction.
The Risk of Petticot Cancer Is Illustrated by a Recent Case
The doctor’s caution follows a research that revealed a possible connection between skin cancer and tightly laced clothing, which was published in BMJ Case Reports. According to the article, a lot of women tighten their petticoats, which puts a lot of strain on the abdomen. Continuous pressure and rubbing over time can cause skin lesions and, in rare instances, squamous cell cancer.
In one instance, a 70-year-old lady who frequently wore sarees experienced pigmentation and an ulcer on her right side. The skin was severely damaged by years of wearing a petticoat that was laced tight. What began as minor skin changes eventually turned into a painful, non-healing ulcer that was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma.
“I wore a tightly wrapped saree for decades, unaware it could harm my health. A minor skin change turned into a painful, non-healing ulcer, eventually diagnosed as skin cancer,” the woman told India Today.
Doctor’s Advice: Exercise Caution
Dr. Kumar urged people to pay attention to any unusual skin lesions around the waist and to seek medical attention promptly. “Early detection is crucial,” he emphasized, advising saree and dhoti wearers to ensure their garments are not tied too tightly and to monitor their skin for changes.
Preventing Petticot Cancer, an Uncommon but Dangerous Illness
This type of cancer has primarily been reported in older individuals who have worn tightly tied garments for decades. The chronic friction and pressure from garments like sarees and dhotis can lead to gradual skin damage, which, if left unchecked, may result in severe health issues.
Important Takeaways
1. Avoid tying petticoats and dhotis too tightly for extended periods.
2. Regularly check for any skin changes or lesions, particularly around areas of chronic friction.
3. Seek medical advice if you notice persistent skin issues or ulcers.
While rare, this condition is a stark reminder of how seemingly harmless habits can have long-term health consequences. Staying vigilant and taking preventive measures can help mitigate the risk of such complications.
