HUNTSVILLE, Ala — It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we’re shining a light on black women, who are at a higher risk of dying of breast cancer than other ethnicities.
According to the CDC, black women get breast cancer at about the same rate as white women. But, black women are at least 40 percent more likely to DIE of breast cancer than white women.
This could be because of a number of reasons, including screening and racial disparities. Checking your breasts at home can help reduce these numbers significantly and catch signs of cancer.
Dr. Libby Shadinger, Medical Director at Huntsville Madison Hospital Breast Center gives some tips on conducting a self-exam at home.
Dr. Shadinger says, “The shower is a good place because the water will help get a good exam. Your fingers will slide along the breast better…. We just recommend starting with the nipple and tracing in a circular motion up to the armpit, making sure you actually check the armpit too because you have breast tissue in that general area.”
Dr. Shadinger also urges you to be sure to keep checking during the pandemic. Don’t delay seeking care if something feels ‘off’. It could be the difference between life and death.
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