Is there really a connection between wearing an underwire bra and breast cancer? That’s a question many women would like to know the answer to, including me.
First let’s take a look at how the idea that underwire bras cause breast cancer started. In 1995 two researchers wrote a book in which they claimed that women who wore tight-fitting bras sharply increased their risks of developing breast cancer. Since underwire bras are said to be one of the most constrictive types of bra, they were considered dangerous.
Let’s look a bit deeper into how these researchers supported their theory scientifically. There are lymph pathways in the armpits, between the breasts, and under the breasts through which lymph fluid flows. Lymph fluid helps to wash impurities out of the breasts through the lymph pathways. They believed that tight bras restrict the flow of lymph fluid in the breasts by blocking these pathways. If this actually occurs, then the impurities, and cancer cell chemicals, are prevented from leaving the breasts. The fluid is then said to attach to the fat tissues in the breast and lumps begin to form. If the lumps contain cancerous cells then that is when breast cancer would begin to form.
Supporters of this theory also believe there are other ways tight-fitting bras may cause breast caner. One is that they believe tight bras cause increase of the prolactin hormone and a decrease in the melatonin hormone. Melatonin is an antioxidant that helps to slow the growth of breast cancer.
Now on the other side of this debate, critics of this theory say the two anthropologists who wrote the book did not conduct their research according to the standard research principles, and did not consider other variables such as known risks factors for breast cancer of those involved in the study. For example, some of the women who participated in the study may have already been at a higher risk of developing breast cancer due to other health factors. But this study did not consider those factors. It is highly argued that this study is not supported by any credible evidence.
According to scientists there isn’t any evidence that can prove that underwire bras increase the risks of breast cancer. Even though there hasn’t been research to support this theory other than the book, but you may want to consider thinking about it.
5 comments:
There should be research about the connection between underwire bras and breast cancer its horrible that there isn't! Every little bit counts and helps especially when it comes to a situation like this.
Great post!
If this was true, I'd be so screwed cause I sleep in my bra!
You really shouldn't sleep in an underwire bra. The best bra to sleep in is a cotton, wireless sports bra.
WOW! I don't sleep in a bra when your breast are as big as mine...you need the freedom...but if there is a connection between the 2 that is very scary...because with breasts as big as mine you need a wire for better support....wireless bras and big boobs are really not a good combination....ugh!!! I really am considering getting these things reduced...what a scary thought....
It is scary, Beth. And yes - it is very challenging to find good support bras that don't have underwire - I am always on the prowl for one, it seems. Although I do happen upon a great wireless DD bra that support me nicely...though they usually have 4 or 5 whopping rows of hooks on the back and enough material to almost be mistaken for a tank top, and usually "wear out" over time.
I'd like to think however that after more conclusive research has been conducted on this link, if there is a valid risk of breast cancer and underwire bras that can be seen, more bra designers and manufacturers will be willing to make good, supportive bras without the restricting wires.
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