Black women have a 40% higher breast cancer mortality rate than white women, and are diagnosed at a younger age
Early detection is crucial for treating breast cancer successfully
Mammography is the most effective method of detecting breast cancer early, and the American Cancer Society recommends women at average risk start getting mammograms at age 40
Some experts recommend black women start getting mammograms at an earlier age due to their higher risk of developing breast cancer at a younger age
Clinical breast exams and breast self-exams are also important for early detection, and can be done in conjunction with mammography
Barriers to screening, such as lack of access to healthcare, cost, and fear and misconceptions, can disproportionately affect black women and must be addressed to improve early detection rates