Health experts are warning that a popular winter fashion trend could increase the risk of back problems and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Cropped coats, including boleros, are making a comeback this winter, as seen with Rihanna’s fashionable look at Paris Fashion Week 2024. While these coats create a stylish silhouette, they leave the lower back exposed, which can have health consequences.
Dr. Masarat Jilani, a bladder care specialist, explained that the lower back plays a key role in keeping the body warm because it contains large muscle groups sensitive to cold. Without sufficient coverage, this area becomes vulnerable to cold exposure, making the body work harder to maintain a stable core temperature. This can lead to muscle stiffness and strain, causing lower back pain.
While cold exposure alone does not directly cause infections or damage the kidneys, it can contribute to conditions like UTIs. Jilani noted that stress from prolonged cold, combined with dehydration or changes in bathroom habits, can increase the risk or severity of these infections.
Cropped coats are not the only winter fashion items that can cause problems. Leather trousers, though fashionable, restrict air circulation around the body, creating a warm, moist environment that can promote bacterial growth. This increases the risk of UTIs, especially for those who are already prone to them.
UTIs are common but can become serious, with 237,000 deaths globally linked to the infection in 2019. The growing resistance of UTI-causing bacteria to antibiotics also makes these infections harder to treat.
To enjoy cropped coats without the health risks, Dr. Jilani recommends wearing high-quality thermal layers that help retain body heat. On especially cold days, opting for a longer wool coat can provide extra warmth and protection for the lower back.
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