You may have heard the rumour that underwire bras increase the risk of breast cancer. Rest assured—this claim has been debunked. You can wear your underwire bras in peace!
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that underwire bras, or any type of clothing, increase the risk of breast cancer. It makes no difference whether you wear your bra all day, overnight, or go braless.
What matters most is comfort. A well-fitted, supportive bra can help prevent pain and discomfort, while an ill-fitting one may cause issues such as shoulder or back strain.
Your risk depends on a combination of factors. While bras are not one of them, the two biggest risk factors are:
Being a woman
Ageing
Risk factors are divided into unmodifiable (cannot be changed) and modifiable (lifestyle-related).
Ageing: Risk rises with age. In Southeast Asia, breast cancer is often diagnosed in women from the age of 40 onwards, compared with age 50 onwards in Western countries.
Genetic mutations: At least 19 genes are now associated with a higher risk of developing breast cancer. The most well-known are BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.
Reproductive history: Early onset of periods (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55) increases lifetime oestrogen exposure.
Dense breasts: Breast density makes cancers harder to detect on a mammogram and is also considered a risk factor.
Personal history: A prior history of breast cancer or certain benign breast diseases increases risk.
Family history: A history of breast, ovarian, or male breast cancer in first-degree relatives, such as a sister, mother, father or brother, increases risk.
Lack of physical activity: Regular exercise lowers the risk of breast cancer.
WHO: At least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
ACS: 150-300 minutes of moderate activity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous activity per week.
NCI, Cancer Research UK, Breast Cancer Now, CDC: All highlight physical activity as a protective factor.
Overweight/obesity after menopause: Increases the risk of breast cancer.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT):
Oestrogen-only therapy: Does not increase risk; may slightly reduce risk.
Combined oestrogen + progestogen therapy: Slightly increases risk, especially after more than 5 years of use. The risk decreases after stopping. Importantly, this therapy does not increase breast cancer mortality.
Alcohol consumption: The greater the alcohol intake, the higher the risk of breast cancer.
See a doctor promptly if you notice:
A lump in the breast or underarm
Swelling or thickening in part of the breast
Skin dimpling or irritation
Redness or flaky skin on nipple/breast
Nipple pulling inward or pain
Unusual nipple discharge (especially blood)
Change in breast size or shape
Note: Breast pain on its own is rarely a sign of cancer. Studies show that women experiencing only breast pain have about a 1% or lower chance of breast cancer, similar to women attending routine screening.
Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, and may include:
Surgery
Radiotherapy
Chemotherapy
Hormone therapy
Targeted therapy (e.g., immunotherapy and others)
Ongoing follow-up care is crucial to monitor treatment side effects, detect recurrences early, and support recovery and survivorship.
Breast cancer cannot be completely prevented, but the risk can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices:
Maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity.
Exercise regularly.
Eat more fruits and vegetables, and reduce processed or fatty foods.
Limit alcohol intake.
Stop smoking.
Know your family’s health history and consider genetic testing if appropriate.
These steps help reduce cancer risk while also improving overall well-being.
Oestrogen-only MHT (for women post-hysterectomy):
No increased risk; may slightly lower risk.
Combined MHT (oestrogen + progestogen):
Slight increase in breast cancer risk.
Risk rises with longer use (more than 5 years) but decreases after stopping.
Does not increase breast cancer mortality.
Hormone type matters:
Older synthetic progestogens are linked to a higher risk.
Newer “body-identical” regimens may be safer, though long-term evidence is still being studied.
Balancing benefits and risks:
MHT remains the most effective treatment for hot flushes, night sweats, and menopausal symptoms.
It also supports bone health.
For most healthy women under 60, or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits outweigh the risks.
At Prince Court, we provide a comprehensive, personalised care — from screening, consultations, and diagnostic assessments to advanced investigations, tailored individualised breast cancer treatment, ongoing support and long-term survivorship support. Beyond breast health, we also offer holistic services for women’s wellness, including menopause care. Our goal is to guide every woman with expertise, compassion, and continuity at every stage of life.
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