Tight bras don't cause cancer, but they're not completely risk-free
It was a hypothesis, not a scientific study. But the theory spread like wildfire, despite having no basis in medical research. Over time, the idea embedded itself into public consciousness, amplified by social media and anecdotal 'evidence' that lacked scientific backing.WHAT RESEARCH ACTUALLY SAYSIn 2014, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle conducted a large-scale, population-based study to examine this very issue. The study, published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, involved over 1,500 women, both with and without breast cancer.THE RESULTS?There was no link between wearing bras regardless of type, duration, or tightness and an increased risk of breast cancer. Dr. Lu Chen, the lead author of the study, concluded: 'Our study found no evidence that wearing a bra increases breast cancer risk among postmenopausal women.'This aligns with the stance of globally trusted institutions:The American Cancer Society: 'There is no scientifically valid study that shows wearing bras of any type causes breast cancer.' The National Cancer Institute and the Cancer Council of Australia echo the same: No link. No risk. No evidence.DOCTORS WEIGH INDr. Therese Bevers, Medical Director at MD Anderson Cancer Center, is direct in her assessment: 'We don't have any evidence to support that underwire bras cause breast cancer cancer is not caused by a wire pinching or poking you anywhere.'Dr. Homayoon Sanati, a breast cancer specialist at MemorialCare Breast Center, also finds the myth implausible: 'Most of the breast cancers we diagnose occur in the upper outer quadrant of the breast, far away from where an underwire rests. If bras were causing blockages that led to cancer, the distribution of tumors would look very different.'WHY THIS MYTH PERSISTSadvertisementSo if there's no evidence, why does the myth live on?Some believe it's tied to the discomfort many women experience with ill-fitting bras. When something feels painful or unnatural, it's easy to associate it with harm. Add in a distrust of the medical establishment or fear of cancer, and the rumor finds fertile ground. Additionally, misinformation spreads faster than scientific nuance especially online.WHAT WEARING THE WRONG BRA CAN DO'Wearing a tight or ill-fitting bra won't give you cancer—but it can certainly give you chronic neck and back pain,' says Dr. Priya Ahuja, senior gynecologist at Bloom Women's Clinic. 'I see women with deep shoulder grooves and posture issues all because their bra isn't giving the right support.'
A well-fitting bra is about comfort and support not disease prevention or risk.advertisementTHE REAL RISK FACTORS FOR BREAST CANCERRather than fearing your lingerie drawer, experts recommend focusing on these proven risk factors:Age and family historyBRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutationsEarly menstruation or late menopauseObesity and sedentary lifestyleAlcohol consumptionHormonal therapyCOMFORT OVER CANCERBras, underwire or not, are not the enemy. If you're wearing a bra that fits well and makes you feel good keep it. If it digs into your skin, causes discomfort, or feels too tight, it's time to get measured and switch it out—not because of cancer, but because you deserve better support.As with all health-related concerns, it's best to turn to science and trusted medical professionals not whispers in WhatsApp groups or decades-old conspiracy theories.- Ends
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Does wearing tight bras cause breast cancer? Experts finally have answers
What's the best part after a hectic day? Ask this to a woman, and you'll unanimously get one answer: It's taking off the bra once you come back home and hit the couch (or the bed)! Let's say it as it is: Wearing bras, no matter how those extremely aesthetic and pop and playful and gorgeous lingerie commercials show you, isn't the most comfortable thing; especially when it's a daily affair. It's messy, and sometimes suffocating, even! Especially if you're a heavily endowed woman and wearing a wired bra, and it's really scorching outside. But does that come with serious harm? Ever heard that squeezing into a tight bra could raise your cancer risk? Time to know the real truth behind this common belief. Bras and breast cancer: Myths vs facts The belief that bras, especially underwire ones, can trigger breast cancer has been floating around since the 1990s like a stubborn bad rumor. The origin story of the myth starts in 1995, with a book called Dressed to Kill by Sydney Ross Singer and Soma Grismaijer. The authors speculated, without conducting scientific studies, that bras, especially underwire ones, might block lymphatic flow. This, they claimed, could 'trap toxins' in breast tissue, potentially leading to cancer. It was just a hypothesis, not a peer-reviewed finding. But the idea spread quickly, fueled by sensational headlines and anecdotal stories. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo Over time, it dug itself into public consciousness, getting fresh life every time it popped up on social media or in a 'forwarded many times' WhatsApp message. And while the claim sounds scary enough to make you rethink your lingerie drawer, doctors and researchers are clear: it's simply not true. So now, let's set the record straight for once and all: wearing bras (tight, wired, or otherwise) does not cause breast cancer. Multiple top institutions, such as the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute, affirm there's no scientific evidence linking bra type, fit, or tightness to cancer risk. In 2014, researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle decided to test the theory with hard data. Their large-scale, population-based study, published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, looked at over 1,500 women, both with and without breast cancer. Another systematic review echoed this, concluding that there's insufficient evidence to link any type or duration of bra wearing with cancer, despite one flawed note about sleeping in bras. Besides, the American Cancer Society says the same: 'There is no scientifically valid study that shows wearing bras of any type causes breast cancer.' That doesn't mean your bra is completely innocent. If it's leaving red marks, carving dents into your shoulders, or turning every day into a wrestling match with elastic, your body is definitely sending you signals (just that, those signals have nothing to do with cancer). Think back pain, poor posture, and circulation issues, not the big C. Wired vs. padded bras: The support showdown Wired bras: The structured support shenanigan Pros: Offers lift, shape, and separation, especially helpful for larger busts. Excellent for giving a defined silhouette under fitted clothes. Cons: Can pinch, chafe, or dig in, especially if ill-fitted or worn for long. Furthermore, exposed wires may scratch or irritate skin; some even experience allergic reactions to metals. Padded (wire-free) bras: The comfy queen Pros: Softer, flexible feel, which is great for lounging, low-impact days, or sensitive skin. Typically light and breathable, ideal for cozy comfort. Cons: Might offer less structured support; some wearers feel a 'slump' in fit or posture without adequate lift. When the tight fit hurts, listen to your body closely While cancer myths are out, ill-fitting bras can still cause everyday problems: Neck, shoulder, and chest muscle pain. Skin irritation, especially from scratchy or dirty bras. During nursing or post-surgery, underwire bras may worsen discomfort or clog milk ducts. Too-tight bands can restrict movement and circulation. Straps that dig in can cause nerve irritation. And the wrong cup size can leave you hunched or straining without even realizing it. How to pick the right bra? Whenever you're out shopping for bras, remember one elementary mantra: comfort comes first. Your bra should support, not strangle you! If you can't slide two fingers under the band, it's too tight. Moreover, know your needs. Use a wired bra when you want lift and shape; opt for padded or wire-free on comfy days or when breast sensitivity is high. Additionally, pay attention to lingerie hygiene. Keep your bras clean; dirty fabric over skin can spark irritation, even if there's no health risk. 'We are questioning PM Modi, SC-appointed panel probe Adani centred': Congress Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Stacking supplements for faster results? Experts warn the wrong combinations can backfire
The Promise vs. the Problem Dangerous Duos: What Not to Take Together Zinc and Calcium: Both compete for absorption in the gut, meaning you absorb less of both when taken together. Iron and Calcium: High calcium intake can hinder iron absorption, putting people—especially those with anemia—at risk. Magnesium and Zinc: High levels of zinc can deplete magnesium, leading to deficiency symptoms like fatigue or cramps. Iron and Zinc: These share the same absorption pathway, reducing how much your body can use. Ginkgo Biloba and Fish Oil: Both can thin the blood, raising the risk of bleeding—especially dangerous for those on blood thinners. Smart Stacks That Help Vitamin C + Iron: Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant sources. Vitamin D + Magnesium: Magnesium supports the metabolism of vitamin D throughout the day. Vitamin D + Calcium + Vitamin K2: Vitamin D helps absorb calcium, while K2 ensures that calcium reaches the bones and not the arteries. The Multivitamin Myth: Are You Overdoing It? You Might Also Like: AIIMS doctor warns vegetarians of vitamin B12 deficiency: Symptoms, risks and foods to add to your diet In a world obsessed with optimization, taking a single daily multivitamin seems passé. Now, millions are turning to supplement stacking —a trend where multiple vitamins, minerals, and herbal boosters are taken simultaneously to enhance health, energy, and performance. But this trend, while seemingly harmless, is drawing serious concern from medical professionals.A report by Prevention reveals that nearly 75% of Americans take dietary supplements regularly. But when it comes to mixing them without proper guidance, nutritionists and toxicologists warn that users may be setting themselves up for unintended consequences—from reduced efficacy to dangerous side effects.'Supplements may look like harmless pills, but they can influence everything from your immune system to your DNA,' says Sonya Angelone, R.D.N., a registered dietitian based in San Francisco. 'When you mix the wrong ones together, they might cancel each other out—or worse, cause toxicity.'The supplement industry remains largely unregulated, and the availability of concentrated formulations online makes it easy for consumers to experiment without medical supervision. 'It's common enough that it's a real concern and it does come up for me clinically,' adds Dr. Zachary Mulvihill, an integrative medicine physician at Weill Cornell all supplements are friends. Some combinations can clash inside your body, competing for absorption or creating harmful reactions. Here are a few examples cited in the Prevention report:While many combinations are problematic, some vitamin duos do complement each other. According to experts:Still, timing matters. Even if certain nutrients work well together, they don't always need to be taken at the same time. A few hours' separation may make a big difference.'Some people double up without realizing,' says Dr. Mulvihill. 'They'll take a multivitamin, then add a hair, skin, and nails supplement—unintentionally overdosing on B vitamins or zinc.'Even seemingly minor duplications can lead to nutrient overload, especially fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which aren't easily flushed out of the vitamins with prescription meds can also pose a risk. 'Some vitamins, especially minerals, can interfere with medications such as antibiotics,' warns Dr. Bruce Ruck, a toxicologist and adjunct professor at Rutgers College of Pharmacy. 'Always check with your provider before combining the two.'Instead of guessing, doctors recommend bloodwork to assess actual deficiencies. 'It's always better to test than to supplement blindly,' says Dr. if your healthcare provider does recommend potentially conflicting supplements, spacing them out—morning and afternoon, for example—can help avoid interactions.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Time of India
Harvard study links this popular vegetable to a rising diabetes risk, but there's a catch; and a healthier alternative too
In a world that increasingly glorifies healthy eating and clean diets, vegetables are often hailed as heroes on our plates. But a new study suggests that when it comes to type 2 diabetes risk, not all vegetables are created equal — especially when deep fryers are involved. While potatoes are a staple in many cuisines and diets around the globe, the way they are cooked might determine whether they help or hurt your health. The humble spud, it turns out, has a dark side when sliced, fried, and salted. Productivity Tool Zero to Hero in Microsoft Excel: Complete Excel guide By Metla Sudha Sekhar View Program Finance Introduction to Technical Analysis & Candlestick Theory By Dinesh Nagpal View Program Finance Financial Literacy i e Lets Crack the Billionaire Code By CA Rahul Gupta View Program Digital Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Neil Patel By Neil Patel View Program Finance Technical Analysis Demystified- A Complete Guide to Trading By Kunal Patel View Program Productivity Tool Excel Essentials to Expert: Your Complete Guide By Study at home View Program Artificial Intelligence AI For Business Professionals Batch 2 By Ansh Mehra View Program A Troubling Link According to a recent study published in The BMJ and reported by Prevention, people who consume French fries at least three times a week may increase their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 20%. This alarming connection emerged from a long-term analysis of more than 205,000 participants over a 30-year period across three major U.S. health studies. The lead author, Dr. Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, a postdoctoral research fellow at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , emphasized the dose-dependent nature of this risk. 'Surprisingly, the increase starts with even less than one serving per week,' he said. 'By the time consumption hits three servings a week, the risk is about 20% higher.' It's important to note that this risk wasn't found with other forms of potatoes. When consumed boiled, baked, or mashed, potatoes did not significantly raise the risk of type 2 diabetes — a vital distinction that shifts the focus from the vegetable itself to how it is prepared. You Might Also Like: How to reverse diabetes? Nutritionist combines scientific strategies with practical food planning. Check early signs What Makes French Fries Riskier? Experts suggest that the risk likely comes down to how French fries are cooked and consumed. 'Frying potatoes makes them energy-dense and high in saturated fat, while also stripping away much of their natural fiber,' said Dr. Katherine N. Balantekin, assistant professor at the University at Buffalo. These nutritional changes can disrupt blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain, both of which are linked to insulin resistance. Frying at high temperatures — especially in certain oils — may also promote inflammation and impair insulin sensitivity, further compounding the risk. Additionally, French fries rarely appear on their own. They're typically part of high-calorie, low-nutrient meals such as fast food combos, which collectively lower overall diet quality and increase disease risk. iStock Frying potatoes makes them energy-dense and high in saturated fat, while also stripping away much of their natural fiber The Whole Grain Advantage Interestingly, the study also found that replacing French fries with whole grains like quinoa, oats, or whole wheat pasta led to a 19% reduction in type 2 diabetes risk. Even swapping out boiled or mashed potatoes for whole grains showed a 4% drop in risk. You Might Also Like: This simple lifestyle change can prevent type 2 diabetes better than medication: Study with a 22-year twist reveals Why are whole grains better? According to Dr. Mousavi, 'Whole grains digest more slowly and are packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant compounds that help keep blood sugar stable.' Unlike fries, these foods release glucose gradually, preventing the sharp spikes associated with diabetes development. iStock Replacing French fries with whole grains like quinoa, oats, or whole wheat pasta led to a reduction in type 2 diabetes ris. Should Potatoes Be Off Your Plate? Not necessarily. Both Mousavi and Balantekin agree that potatoes can still be part of a healthy diet — it just depends on preparation and portion size. 'Potatoes should not be your main source of carbohydrates, but baking or boiling them with the skin on can retain fiber and reduce negative impact,' Balantekin advised. Medical News Today also reports that while potatoes are a starchy vegetable, they do not need to be eliminated entirely from a diabetic diet. The glycemic index (GI) of potatoes varies based on how they are cooked, and pairing them with lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-GI vegetables can moderate blood sugar responses. It's All in the Cooking This research underscores a critical point: the nutritional value of a food is not just about what it is, but how it's made and what it's eaten with. While potatoes themselves are nutrient-rich and versatile, frying them in oil transforms them into a food that could harm long-term health. As Balantekin summed up, 'It's all about balance and making thoughtful choices.' So the next time you're tempted by a serving of fries, remember — a boiled or baked potato might not be as trendy, but it could be far better for your long-term health. Not all vegetables are equal, after all, and this one has a catch.
