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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Howard chapter.

As 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, it is the most common cancer among women and the second leading cause of cancer death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Early diagnosis is key as it can save lives! It is recommended for women to begin having clinical breast exams at the age of 20. They should also begin doing their own monthly self-breast exams because, in most cases, women discover their own breast cancer. Here is a guide for performing your own breast examination:

 

Source: hcmarbella.com

 

Women in poverty stricken areas have higher mortality rates and the lowest treatment rates, often common for women of color. Although white women in the District of Columbia are more prone to being diagnosed with breast cancer, black women are more likely to die from it. There are not many facilities that offer mammograms, and if they are available, they are not affordable and they don’t accept all forms of insurance. Breast Cancer for Washington DC, a FDA accredited and licensed mammography facility, helps assist uninsured, low income women. They offer breast cancer screening, diagnostics, and treatment regardless of ability to pay.

 

Source: Qlarant Foundation

Hello, my name is Jaclyn Lafayette Batts. I am a senior Biology major Chemistry minor from Northern Virginia. I enjoy  creating articles to enlighten and empower the Black community. I aim towards acting as a conduit of communication to my community through my articles.