Dressed to Kill (book)

Dressed to Kill: The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bras is a book by medical anthropologists Sydney Ross Singer and Soma Grismaijer. The book explores the hypothesis that wearing bras may increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

Overview

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Cover of Dressed to Kill

The book was first published in 1995 and presents the authors' research on the potential link between bra usage and breast cancer incidence. Singer and Grismaijer conducted a study involving over 4,000 women in five major U.S. cities. They reported that women who wore bras for extended periods had a higher incidence of breast cancer compared to those who did not wear bras or wore them for shorter durations.

The authors propose that bras may constrict the lymphatic system, leading to impaired lymphatic drainage and the accumulation of toxins in breast tissue. This, they suggest, could increase the risk of cancer development.

Criticism and Controversy

The hypothesis presented in Dressed to Kill has been met with skepticism and criticism from the medical community. Critics argue that the study lacks scientific rigor and that the authors did not adequately control for other risk factors for breast cancer, such as genetics, diet, and lifestyle.

Many experts emphasize that there is no conclusive scientific evidence supporting the claim that wearing bras causes breast cancer. Major health organizations, including the American Cancer Society, have stated that there is no credible evidence linking bra usage to breast cancer risk.

Impact and Influence

Despite the controversy, Dressed to Kill has sparked discussions about breast health and the potential impact of clothing on health. It has encouraged some women to reconsider their bra-wearing habits and has contributed to the broader conversation about breast cancer prevention.

The book has also been part of a larger movement questioning conventional medical wisdom and advocating for alternative approaches to health and wellness.

Related pages

• Breast cancer
• Lymphatic system
• Sydney Ross Singer
• Soma Grismaijer