Abstract: A method and devices in accordance with the present invention enable detecting regions of breast tissue having modulus of elasticity different from that of surrounding glandular tissue using a pressure sensing array. Detection of breast tumors is based on analyzing features of the stress pattern on the surface of an examined tissue that appear as a deviation from a stress pattern for a relatively homogeneous normal tissue. In one embodiment of the invention, a pressure sensor array, data acquisition circuit, and a microprocessor are mounted in a hand held pad. Detection of nodules is achieved by analyzing the dynamic and spatial features of the pressure pattern while the probe pressed to the breast is periodically moved transversely to the ribs. The ribs play a role as an amplifier of the measured effect. The device will be able to objectively detect the presence of lumps in a breast and provide a warning signal.