If black women were as vigilant about breast cancer screening as they are about screening bothersome phone calls, this segment of the population might become one of the least affected by breast cancer. Similarly, if black men received regular cancer screenings, it would significantly reduce the number of men affected by the disease each year. Millions of Americans die from cancer every year, and blacks die from the disease at a disproportionate rate. The power to curtail this trend lies in having regular cancer screenings early and often.

Following are some screening tips and facts to be aware of. Remember, cancer can strike any of us, at any time without warning. Knowledge is power, and you have the power to protect yourself. –delgie jones II

Breast Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute, women should begin having mammograms at the age of 40. It is imperative that women receive a mammogram and a clinical breast exam at least once a year.

As women age, they become more susceptible to breast cancer and are encouraged to conduct breast self-examinations between doctor’s visits at all ages.

Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer tends to affect men as they reach their 40s. However, men should begin prostate screening during their mid-30s as a preventive measure. Prostate cancer is marked by the enlarging of the prostate. This happens to every man as he ages, thereby making regular screenings the best way to diagnose the disease early.

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