Introduction: The Skin Tag Mystery

Those small, soft, skin-colored growths around the neck, known medically as acrochordons or skin tags, are extremely common, especially as we age. While they are usually benign (non-cancerous) and harmless in themselves, their appearance can often serve as a visual marker or “signpost” pointing to certain metabolic or hormonal changes happening inside the body.

If you notice a sudden increase in the number or size of skin tags around your neck, armpits, or groin area, it may be your body signaling a need for a health check-up.

The Link: 3 Diseases Signaled by Neck Warts

The primary reason skin tags appear is due to friction (skin rubbing against skin or clothing). However, the underlying reason for excessive growth is often linked to elevated levels of certain hormones and biological markers, leading to these three conditions:

1. Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes

This is the most significant and common link. Insulin resistance occurs when cells in your muscles, fat, and liver don’t respond well to insulin, leading the pancreas to pump out more and more of the hormone.

• The Connection: High levels of insulin in the bloodstream (hyperinsulinemia) are believed to stimulate the growth factors in the skin, which in turn causes the rapid formation of skin tags.
• The Warning: If you have many skin tags, especially if you also carry weight around the abdomen, it should prompt immediate screening for pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes.

2. Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol and Triglycerides)

Dyslipidemia refers to an abnormal amount of lipids (fats) in the blood, such as high LDL cholesterol or high triglycerides.

• The Connection: Several studies have indicated a strong correlation between the presence of multiple skin tags and unfavourable lipid profiles. While skin tags don’t cause high cholesterol, they frequently co-exist as both are linked to metabolic syndrome (a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke).
• The Warning: The presence of these growths may suggest that you are already experiencing metabolic changes that require dietary and lifestyle intervention to protect your cardiovascular health.

3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age, characterized by elevated levels of androgens (male hormones).

• The Connection: PCOS is fundamentally linked to insulin resistance (see point 1). The insulin resistance component drives both the weight gain often seen in PCOS and the resulting formation of skin tags.
• The Warning (for Women): If a woman has neck warts along with other PCOS symptoms like irregular periods, excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism), or acne, a hormonal evaluation should be prioritized.

Be Alert: When to Consult a Dermatologist or GP

While most skin tags are benign, they should never be ignored as a mere cosmetic issue.

The Bottom Line: Neck warts are rarely a danger in themselves, but they are a fantastic, visual reminder to check on your internal health, particularly your blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Addressing the underlying metabolic issue is the best way to prevent future skin tags from appearing.