Sports bras are essential for anyone who enjoys being active by providing the necessary support to keep breasts in place, but there's a lingering myth that keeps popping up: Do sports bras cause breast cancer? The short answer? NO, sports bras do not cause breast cancer—and we’re here to break down why.
Where Did This Myth Come From?
The idea that sports bras could cause breast cancer likely stems from confusion around how bras affect breast tissue. Some people believe that the compression and tightness from wearing certain sports bras regularly can lead to problems like restricted circulation or even cancer. But here's the truth: there’s no scientific evidence that supports this. According to breast health experts, sports bras do not cause any changes in breast tissue that would lead to cancer. In fact, sports bras enhance comfort during exercise, making it more sustainable—and regular physical activity is known to reduce the risk of breast cancer. According to numerous studies, including one conducted by the Women’s Health Initiative, being physically active lowers your risk of developing breast cancer by up to 20%. The benefits of staying active—whether you're walking, running, lifting weights, or practicing yoga—g extend beyond breast health. To learn more about the link between exercise and breast cancer, read this blog.
What can cause breast cancer?
It’s important to understand that while sports bras don’t cause breast cancer, the disease can develop due to a range of other risk factors.
These include genetics, such as family history and specific gene mutations. Physical traits also play a role—being born female, age, high breast density, and early menstruation are all linked to a higher risk. Environmental factors, such as exposure to pollution and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), may also contribute. Finally, certain lifestyle choices like physical inactivity, obesity, alcohol consumption, and smoking can increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
So, while your bra isn’t a concern, it’s worth focusing on these broader factors to protect your breasts and overall health.
What Health Problems Can Improper Sports Bras Cause?
While sports bras don't cause breast cancer, the wrong sports bra can cause other health issues—and we definitely don’t want you to ignore those. Wearing an ill-fitting or inadequate sports bra, can lead to some uncomfortable and even painful problems, including:
- Breast, back, neck and shoulder pain: An ill-fitting sports bra—whether too tight, too loose, or lacking proper support—can disrupt your balance, impact your posture, and lead to unnecessary strain on your back, neck, and shoulders, and breast pain.
- Chafing and skin irritation: Even with a perfect fit, standard sports bras can still cause chafing due to fabric choices and construction. Features like thick stitching, open unpadded closures, and an ill-fitting underband can rub against the skin, causing irritation, blistering, or even bleeding—especially during intense, high-movement workouts or sweaty activities like running.
- Restricted breathing: Restrictive sports bras such as compression bras can make breathing a lot harder, especially during exercise. A bra that overly squeezes your chest or ribs can interfere with your ability to take deep breaths, leading to early fatigue. You want to feel supported, not suffocated!
- Nerve damage and circulation issues: Similarly, bras that are overly tight can affect blood circulation. You might experience lightheadedness or weakness if the straps or band dig in too much. Digging shoulder straps are also known to impinge on the nerves that run down from your shoulders to the fingers, causing finger numbness and nerve damage.
A well-fitting sports bra is essential for breast health, but the right choice varies by body type, activity, and personal preference. To help you find your perfect match, we’ve created a guide covering key features and tips for ensuring the best fit. Read it here.
If you’ve related to the pain points above and you just want to cut to the chase, we have created a science-backed sports bra that eliminates the pain and keeps you supported and comfortable no matter how you move. Many women, including ultra-runner Anna Simonsson-Søndenå, have found this the only sports bra that doesn’t chafe and actually does the job all sports bras are supposed to do. Check it out, here.
The Bottom Line
Wearing a sports bra that fits and supports you correctly is important for your comfort and health, and you can rest assured—sports bras do not cause breast cancer. In fact, they play a crucial role in helping you stay active, which is one of the best ways to reduce your risk. Just make sure to choose the right bra.
Remember: a great sports bra is your workout partner, not a health risk!