In 2001, an estimated 19,300 new cases of breast cancer are expected to occur among African American women. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among African American women. It ranks second among causes of cancer deaths in African American women.
Most women discover breast masses during monthly breast self-examination.
This simple and easy to follow examination allows a woman to become more familiar with her breast, making the detection of subtle changes or abnormities easier. A screening mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs of breast cancer. It usually involves two x-ray of each breast. Using a mammogram, it is possible to detect a tumor that cannot be felt. A diagnostic mammogram is an x-ray of the breast used to diagnose unusual breast changes, such as a lump.