Wearing saree on a daily basis can lead to chronic irritation in the waist area, which can lead to malignancy. Here are a few preventive measures to know.
The risk of wearing sarees being associated with cancer is being talked about recently. The six yards of grace may not be all good news.
In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr. Darshana Rane, consultant - Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Cantre, Borivali, said, “A rare but notable condition called saree cancer can affect women who wear sarees daily, reports Hindustan Times.
This unique condition usually occurs in the midsection, or at the waistline, and results from chronic irritation caused by a tightly tied petticoat cord (or nada), which secures the saree in place.”
Causes
Also referred to as “petticoat cancer,” this condition happens in people who wear their petticoat’s thread too tight on the waist. “When this cord is fastened constantly at the same level in the abdomen, it can lead to dermatoses (skin irritation), which can become ulcers, also known as Marjolin’s ulcer, and, in very rare cases, malignancy,” said Dr. Darshana Rane.
Early signs
The thread can cause prolonged irritation. In the hot and humid climate of India, especially in the rural areas, this condition has a tendency of getting worse faster.
“Irritation from the petticoat cord gets worse with the hot and humid climate of India, especially in rural areas where healthcare services are unavailable or not very accessible. Very often, sweat and dust accumulate around the tightly tied cord causing itching and scratching.
Unfortunately, women who stay in remote areas may not pay attention to early symptoms such as pigmentation or mild scale signs and allow the condition to develop before seeking medical help,” explained Dr Darshana Rane.
Preventive measures
Avoid very tight tying, especially if you experience the early signs of dermatosis, such as pigmentation changes or scaling.
A broader waistband in the petticoat helps in spreading pressure more evenly along the waist.
Keep changing the waist level where you tie the petticoat. When at home, opt for loose trousers with an elastic waistband to help air circulation.
Regular cleaning of the waist area is also necessary, especially for those who work outdoors since they tend to accumulate dust and sweat. Keep checking the waist area for signs of irritation.
Bd-pratidin English/ Fariha Nowshin Chinika
