What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer? This guide helps one understand the intricacies and breaks down the information from several studies.
South Africa (13 March 2024) – Breast cancer impacts countless women around the globe, manifesting in various types, each distinct in nature and requiring different treatments. Among these, Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) stands out. It’s unique because it that does not have any of the receptors that are commonly found in breast cancer, making it a bit of a puzzle in the breast cancer world1. Here, we’re breaking down the basics of TNBC, explaining why its lack of receptors matters and how it changes the game for those diagnosed.
What’s the Deal with Receptors?
Normal breast cells and some breast cancer cells have receptors that attach to the hormones2 oestrogen and progesterone and need these hormones for the cells to grow. TNBC doesn’t have these receptors, so it requires different strategies of treatment.
TNBC: The Odd One Out:
TNBC cancer cells don’t have oestrogen or progesterone receptors (ER or PR) and don’t make any or too much of the protein called HER2. (The cells test “negative” on all three tests3.) These cancers tend to be more common in women younger than 40, who are Black, or who have a BRCA1 mutation. Because the cancer cells don’t have these proteins, hormone therapy and drugs4 that target HER2 are not helpful.
Rooting Out the Causes:
The involvement of genes plays a significant role in the development and aggression of TNBC. People with BReast CAncer (BRCA) gene mutations2 have a significantly higher lifetime risk of developing breast cancer than the rest of the population.
Genes and Risk:
There are two types of BRCA genes: BRCA1 and BRCA2. People who have a genetic mutation2 in one of these genes have an increased risk of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. Knowing these risk factors helps women stay alert and proactive about their breast health.
Catching It Early:
Triple-negative breast cancer is a more aggressive tumour5 with a faster growth rate. Regular self-checks, doctor’s exams, and mammograms are key players in catching TNBC early.
Finding Your Tribe and Knowledge Is Power:
A TNBC diagnosis can feel isolating, but there’s a community and a wealth of information. Support groups, survivor networks, and staying updated on the latest research can provide strength and empowerment.
References:
-
Triple-negative breast cancer: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/triple-negative.htm retrieved 24 November 23
-
Receptors: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/triple-negative-breast-cancer-and-brca1-mutation#:~:text=People%20who%20have%20a%20genetic,aggressive%20form%20of%20breast%20cancer – retrieved 24 November 23
-
TNBC: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/types-of-breast-cancer/triple-negative.html – retrieved 24 November 23
-
Treatment: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/treatment/treatment-of-triple-negative.html#:~:text=Triple%2Dnegative%20breast%20cancer%20(TNBC,the%20main%20systemic%20treatment%20option – retrieved 24 November 23
-
TNBC: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/triple-negative-breast-cancer-and-brca1-mutation#:~:text=People%20who%20have%20a%20genetic,aggressive%20form%20of%20breast%20cancer – retrieved 24 November 23
by 