Is there harm in wearing bras? An investigation into their benefits and drawbacks
In a world where misconceptions often abound, it's essential to separate fact from fiction, especially when it comes to health matters. This article aims to clarify the relationship between bras, bralessness, and breast health, focusing on the findings of various studies and the stance of health organisations.
**No Credible Evidence Linking Bras to Breast Cancer**
Comprehensive reviews and large-scale studies have found no credible scientific evidence that wearing a bra—of any type, including underwire, tight, or lace bras—increases the risk of breast cancer[1][2][3]. The misconception that bras might cause cancer originated from controversial, unscientific claims, but these have been thoroughly refuted by medical experts and major health organizations. For example, the United States National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society both state that bras have not been found to increase a woman's risk for breast cancer, and there are no scientifically valid studies demonstrating such a link[1].
**Bralessness and Cancer Risk**
Going braless also has not been shown to affect breast cancer risk. The decision to wear or not wear a bra is primarily based on personal comfort, aesthetics, or social factors, not health concerns related to cancer[1].
**Established Risk Factors for Breast Cancer**
In contrast, established risk factors for breast cancer include genetic predisposition (such as BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations), family history, hormonal factors (like late menopause, nulliparity, hormone replacement therapy, and oral contraceptive use), obesity (especially postmenopausal), alcohol consumption, smoking, and certain environmental exposures[5]. Modifiable lifestyle factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and limiting alcohol, are more relevant for risk reduction[5].
**Bras and Breast Health**
A 2003 study found that all females undergoing breast reduction surgery had been wearing the wrong size of bra[4]. Better knowledge of breast health led to increased use of a sports bra, resulting in increased exercise levels among the participants[4]. Wearing a correctly fitting bra may help improve posture and prevent back pain, particularly for people with larger breasts[6]. A study investigating the effects of wearing a sports bra during running found that sports bras that offer a high level of support can reduce breast pain, particularly for people with larger breasts[7].
However, it's important to note that studies suggesting a link between bras and breast sagging, such as Rouillon's 15-year study, have not been published officially or peer-reviewed[8]. Marco Klinger, Head of the Operating Unit of Plastic Surgery at Humanitas Research Hospital, states that the study is too small to be an accurate representation of breast sagging in the general population[8]. Klinger also highlights that a wide range of variables are likely to affect breast sagging, including aging, genetics, changes in weight, normal hormonal phases, pregnancy, and more[8].
In conclusion, there is no scientific basis for the claim that wearing a bra or going braless affects the risk of breast cancer[1][2][3]. Concerns about bras and cancer are based on myths, not evidence. Women should focus on known, evidence-based risk factors and lifestyle choices for breast cancer prevention[5]. It's crucial to ensure a correctly fitting bra to alleviate potential discomfort and promote overall breast health.
- Senior females should be aware that establishes risk factors for breast cancer include genetic predisposition, family history, hormonal factors, obesity, alcohol consumption, smoking, and certain environmental exposures, while focusing less on the relationship between bras and breast cancer.
- Significant reviews and large-scale studies have debunked the theory that wearing a bra contributes to the development of other breast disorders or breast cancer, emphasizing the need for accurate information about female health and breast health.
- In health-and-wellness discussions focusing on women's health, it is essential to prioritize the impact of modifiable lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and limiting alcohol for breast cancer risk reduction, rather than unfounded claims about bras.
- Contrary to popular belief, Bralessness does not impact the risk of developing breast cancer; instead, the decision to wear or not wear a bra is primarily based on factors such as personal comfort, aesthetics, or social preferences.
- Wearing a correctly fitting bra can have benefits for overall breast health and wellness, particularly for females with larger breasts, as it may help improve posture, reduce back pain, and contribute to exercise levels—a finding supported by science. However, studies claiming a link between bras and breast sagging remain unverified and require further research for validation.
