Link between breast cancer and underwire bras?

[Pam]

Hi,

I just read somewhere that there may be a link between prolonged use of underwire bras and breast cancer.  The article was on an Internet website, however, I couldn't find any medical information or research to support the theory. Does anyone know anything about this?  Is there an ongoing research study?


Pam

[peekawho]

It's an old myth.  A simple search found a ton of info, have you tried?

"Myth: Underwire Bras Cause Breast Cancer.

Fact: A book published a few years ago called Dressed to Kill suggested that underwire bras can constrict the body’s lymph node system, causing breast cancer. The authors of the book attributed the high rate of breast cancer in North America (compared to less industrialized countries in the world) to the fact that most North American women wear bras. This link between underwire bras and breast cancer is completely inaccurate. The authors of Dressed to Kill did not take into account any other genetic, environmental, or social factors that could contribute to breast cancer risk (such as age, family history, high fat diet, obesity, not having children, etc.)."  

It goes on to say the authors did not follow any standard epidemiological methods in their "study".

[peekawho]

That website is primarily selling books and other materials.  While the "study" is free, it is clearly suggested right on the registration page, that "many others" have given a "generous" charitable donation to the foundation.

I'll just be sending this to Cindy (MH owner) to let her deal with it.