A study links breast enlargement to an increased risk of migraines, neck pain, and sleep apnea

A recent study found that women with larger breasts are more likely to suffer from migraines, neck pain, and sleep apnea, according to what was reported by the German “Hyle Praxis” website, citing the specialized scientific journal “Hydeck Journal.”

What is breast enlargement?

The results were based on a study issued by Wake Forest University in the United States, where its supervisors tried to find out whether there was a link between a condition known as macromastia (a condition in which the size of the breasts is very large and does not fit in proportion to the rest of the body), and the occurrence of migraines, neck pain, and a number of other health problems.

It is noteworthy that the exact prevalence of breast enlargement is not known, but some studies indicate that it affects between 1 percent and 5 percent of women. This estimate also increases after menopause, when about 18.6 percent of women experience an increase in breast size, which may be related to weight gain and hormonal changes.

However, breast enlargement may also occur during other stages of life, such as puberty or later, according to what was reported by the “Healthline” website, which specializes in medical news.

Study details

The researchers compared the data of 347 women with enlarged breasts with the data of 340 women who did not suffer from the same problem in the period between 2017 and 2024. The researchers took a group of factors into account, including: age, body mass index, depression, and anxiety.

Data analysis showed that women with enlarged breasts, compared to women without breast enlargement, were 40 percent more likely to suffer from chronic migraines, about 50 percent more likely to suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, and about twice as much neck pain.

Study supervisor Dr. Christine Pocock said: “Many view enlarged breast tissue primarily as a cosmetic problem, but our results indicate that it may be linked to a broader range of health problems facing women, including chronic migraines, neck pain, and sleep-related breathing disorders.”

She added: “By better understanding these links, we can help ensure that women receive more evaluation and care for symptoms that may affect their daily lives,” according to what the “Healthline” website quoted her as saying.