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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
The belief that tight bras can cause breast cancer gained traction in the 1990s. (Representative/AP)
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.
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