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News18
9 hours ago
- Health
- News18
Does Wearing A Tight Bra Cause Breast Cancer?
Last Updated: In their book "Dressed to Kill," Sydney Ross Singer and Soma Grismajier speculated that bras, especially underwire ones, might block lymph flow, trapping toxins and causing cancer A recent report aims to dispel a common myth regarding the health risks of wearing tight bras, particularly underwire bras, and their alleged link to breast cancer. Despite advertisements showcasing bras as sexy, attractive, and colourful, many women find them uncomfortable, especially tight bras, which can feel suffocating in hot weather. Can Wearing A Tight Bra Cause Cancer? According to the Times of India, the belief that tight bras can cause breast cancer gained traction in the 1990s following the publication of Sydney Ross Singer and Soma Grismajier's book 'Dressed to Kill". The authors speculated, without scientific evidence, that bras, especially underwire versions, could block lymphatic flow, trapping toxins in breast tissue and leading to cancer. This rumour has since spread widely across social media platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram reels. However, there is no scientific basis for this claim. Leading organisations such as the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute have stated unequivocally that the type, fit, or tightness of bras has no link to breast cancer. What Does Research Say? In 2014, researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle conducted a study involving 1,500 women and found no connection between tight bras and breast cancer. Leading organizations like the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute state that the type, fit, or tightness of a bra has no scientific connection to cancer. In 2014, researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle conducted a study involving 1,500 women to investigate this issue. The study, published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, found no link between wearing tight bras and cancer. Additionally, the American Cancer Society confirms, 'There are no scientifically valid studies showing that wearing any type of bra causes breast cancer. When Can It Be Harmful? While tight bras do not cause cancer, they can still lead to other health issues. If a bra leaves red marks, creates deep pits on the shoulders, or causes discomfort due to the elastic, these are signs that it may be harmful to the body. Problems such as back pain, poor posture, and restricted blood flow can result from wearing tight bras, though these issues are unrelated to cancer. While the discomfort caused by tight bras is real, the rumour that they increase the risk of breast cancer is unfounded. Women should pay attention to signals from their body and opt for bras that provide comfort and proper support without causing harm. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- 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 !
India Today
5 days ago
- Health
- India Today
Tight bras don't cause cancer, but they're not completely risk-free
Tight bra? Underwire digging in? Wearing it all day and night? If you've ever paused mid-Instagram scroll or heard an aunt whisper, 'You know, wearing that too long can give you cancer,' you're not alone. The idea that bras especially underwire ones can cause breast cancer has lingered like a bad rumour since the 1990s. And while the claim sounds serious enough to spark panic, doctors and researchers say it's simply not said, if your bra is leaving red marks, shoulder dents, or feels like a daily battle with elastic, your body is trying to tell you something but it's not about cancer. From back pain to circulation issues, wearing the wrong size or type of bra can cause plenty of problems but not the one everyone fears the DID THIS MYTH COME FROM?The roots of the bra-cancer myth can be traced back to a 1995 book titled Dressed to Kill by Sydney Ross Singer and Soma Grismaijer. The authors speculated that bras especially underwire bras could obstruct lymphatic flow, thereby "trapping toxins" in breast tissue and leading to cancer. 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 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 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 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 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 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 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
