For several decades, a rumor has continued to persist: wearing a bra increases the risk of developing breast cancer.
- There is a popular belief that wearing bras, especially underwired ones, could block lymphatic circulation and increase the risk of breast cancer.
- Several studies have shown that there is no direct link between bra wearing and the development of breast cancer, and instead the main risk factors include age, genetic factors and lifestyle.
- Researchers agree that there is no reliable scientific evidence supporting this belief.
This idea, although unfounded, regularly resurfaces, particularly during periods of awareness such as “Pink October”. But yet, scientific studies continue to demonstrate that there is no link between the bra and this disease.
Breast cancer and bras: let’s go back in time…
As explained by one article published in the Canal Detox section of Inserm, the origin of this belief dates back to the book “Dressed to Kill: The Link between Breast Cancer and Bras”published in 1995 by the American doctor Sydney Singer. He claimed that wearing a bra, especially with underwires and for long periods (or even overnight!), would block lymphatic circulation, leading to an accumulation of toxins favoring the appearance of tumors. However, this theory has never been validated by experts or published in serious scientific journals. A 2014 American studyconducted on more than 1,500 women, clearly showed that there is no difference in cancer risk between those who wear a bra and those who do not, regardless of the type of bra or the port frequency.
The real risk factors for breast cancer to watch out for
The increase in cases of breast cancer in recent years has nothing to do with wearing a bra, but rather is linked to well-documented risk factors. Among them, we find alcohol consumption, smoking, overweightand lack of physical activity (with an unfortunate tendency to be sedentary). Furthermore, having children later and in fewer numbers also contributes to an increased risk.
Exit false beliefs! It is more interesting to look at these behaviors recognized as risk factors to adopt effective prevention measures.
