Do Bras Cause Breast Cancer?

26.11.2012 | By: Kathy M.

Rumors that wearing a bra causes breast cancer have been around for some time. But are they true?

Not to wearing a bra can be seen a preventive measure against developing breast cancer. (PhotoXpress)

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Almost every member of the female gender wears a bra, at least in the European-American cultural sphere. The rumors that this piece of woman's clothing causes breast cancer are therefore even more worrying. But are they true?

A short history of breast cancer and bras

Breast cancer is a relatively old disease which was known since the ancient times, many centuries before modern devices were invented, such as x-ray or anesthesia. On the other hand, bra is a very modern invention, only a little over 100 years old. Luman L. Chapman attached little baskets on the corset in 1863 and Marie Tucek registered the invention as a breast supporter in 1893. A modern day bra was created by Mary Phelps Jacob in 1913. She simply tied two pieces of silk fabric together with a flowery ribbon and the ancestor of the most frequently worn piece of woman's clothing was created.

Are you familiar with the rumor?

The rumor that wearing a bra causes breast cancer, goes something like this: Wearing a bra for twelve hours or more stops the breast lymphatic system and causes harmful substances to store inside the breasts, which causes breast cancer. But let us explain that ''cleaning'' breasts in such a way has no real effect on the development of breast cancer, because in reality it is caused by cancerous cells. It is however true that bras, especially if they are too small or made from artificial materials, irritate the skin and cause bruises and inflammations. Large breasts can also cause back or neck pain, so it is almost necessary to wear a quality bra that offers enough support. Bras are also obligatory in sports because they prevent the breasts from jumping incontrollably.

According to scientist bras don't cause breast cancer

American Cancer Society claims that bras don't contribute to the development of breast cancer. However, the statistics show that breast cancer occurs less often with women who don't wear a bra. This is not conditioned only by wearing a bra or not, but also by the physical structure of women who don't wear a bra. These women are usually thin and have small breasts. On the other hand, women with relatively large or at least average breasts and those who are a bit heavier usually have to wear a bra for extra support. Both, the larger amount of breast tissue and excessive weight are the possible factors for more frequent development of breast cancer.

You can still decide to quit wearing a bra

National Cancer Institute in the USA, agrees that wearing a bra is not directly linked to breast cancer development. More plausible and proven risk factors are the genes, alcohol consumption and smoking as well as unhealthy lifestyle and excessive weight. All these things contribute to a higher level of estrogen in the body which increases the possibility of breast cancer development. But you can still decide to completely give up wearing a bra if it will make you feel better.