Bras are considered quintessential garments in a lady’s life because of the different roles they play. Bras like technology have evolved in types and designs over time. Is it possible that this garment that 50 percent of the population introduced as early as 9 years old is making them sick?

Breast cancer is the leading form of cancer among women but in developing countries, it ranks second except for Kenya where it tops the cancer list among women (Nairobi Cancer Registry 2004-2008). Among the many contributory factors of breast cancer, bras can now be included in the list (Othieno-Abinya, 2015). In his research, he concluded that women who wore bras all the time even in bed were significantly associated with breast cancer occurrence as compared to those who never wore or those who only did so on important occasions.

Research has been done and is continuously ongoing on this controversial topic of bras and breast cancer. Othieno-Abinya and Singer have linked this undergarment with a probability of causing breast cancer. Whereas, the Cancer Council of Australia and researchers from the Fred Hutchinson cancer research center in Seattle dismiss these findings. Singer in support of the bras breast cancer link argues this in terms of the lymphatic system which is extremely thin and compressed under pressure. This system is responsible for transporting lymph (liquid containing white blood cells) throughout the body and getting rid of toxins, waste, and unwanted materials. The largest clusters of lymph nodes are located in the armpit and upper chest. In the event a poorly fitting or tight bra is worn over a long period, blood poorly circulates and the lymphatic drainage is cut off such that toxic chemicals are trapped in the breast (Singer S, 1995). This leads to benign, painful breast cysts and lumps which over time can lead to fibrocystic breast disease (higher risk of breast cancer). He further goes ahead to state the following;

1. Women who wore bras 24 hours a day had a 3 out of 4 chance of developing breast cancer
2. Women who wore bras more than 12 hours a day but not to bed had a 1 out of 7 chance of breast cancer
3. Women who wore bras less than 12 hours a day had 1 out of 52 risk of developing breast cancer
4. Women who wore bras rarely or never had a 1 out of 168 chance of getting breast cancer

These worrying statistics may prompt ladies to burn their bras; however, Cancer Council of Australia refutes these findings stating there is no direct link of bras and breast cancer and that the research by Singer was based on observation rather than scientific evidence. Further, bodily fluid travels up and out of the armpits and not down towards the bra underwire.

What say you? Are you wearing the bra or ditching it all the same regardless of the conflicting research and the scanty information that exists? Despite this contradictory information, scientists unanimously agree on the following effects of wearing a poor fitting or tight bra:

1. Neck, back and shoulder pain
2. Bad posture
3. Skin abrasion
4. Difficulty in breathing
5. Numbness in the fingers
6. Indentation in the shoulders
7. Headaches
8. Digestive problems such as heartburn

Surprisingly, about 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size; either too small or too large. But what truly entails a good bra? It should stay in place, fit comfortably, have no gaps in the cups, the bra straps should not fall or dig into your shoulder, the band should not ride on its back, and the breasts should not spill over. There is a need to ditch that bra if the mentioned characteristics do not perfectly describe what you have on.

We are not advocating for or against using a bra but if you opt to wear that bra, ensure that you choose one that fits correctly. However, it critical to be aware that other factors exist that can contribute to breast cancer. Protect your health by wearing a good bra or none, be physically active, watch your weight and diet, and have regular check-ups!

References

Breast Cancer Overview. American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA

Korir, A., Okerosi, N., Ronoh, V., Mutuma, G., and Parkin, M., 2014. Incidence Of Cancer In Nairobi, Kenya (2004-2008).

Othieno-Abinya, N., Wanzala, P., Omollo, R., Kalebi, A., Baraza, R., Nyongesa, C., Muthoni-Musibi, A., Maina, M., Waweru, A. and Githaiga, J., 2015. Comparative study of breast cancer risk factors at Kenyatta National Hospital and the Nairobi Hospital. Journal Africain du Cancer / African Journal of Cancer, 7(1), pp.41-46.

Singer, S. and Grismaijer, S., 1995. Dressed To Kill:The Link Between Breast Cancer And Bras. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group.