Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among women across the globe, and it has continued to spread rapidly in recent times.

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is a form of breast cancer that has proven to be tougher to treat than other types due to its lack of identifiable receptors.

Patients with TNBC often face a more aggressive treatment regimen than those with other types of breast cancer.

They require a multidisciplinary approach in their treatment, which involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation treatment, and surgery.

Here is what to expect when battling Triple Negative Breast Cancer.

Understanding TNBC

As mentioned earlier, TNBC is a form of breast cancer that lacks Estrogen and Progesterone receptors, as well as the protein that signals the presence of Her2neu.

These receptors are vital to a cancer diagnosis as they help doctors determine how to attack the disease best. However, without these receptors, it becomes harder to find effective treatments.

According to the American Cancer Society, TNBC makes up around 10-20% of all invasive breast cancers. It is more common in women below the age of 50. In comparison, it is significantly less common among older women who have gone through menopause.

Diagnosing TNBC

The diagnostic process for TNBC is similar to other forms of breast cancer. It begins with a physical examination and, in some cases, imaging tests like mammography, PET scans, or MRIs.

If there is a suspicion of breast cancer, a biopsy of the affected tissues is performed to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy helps determine if the cancer cells are triple-negative or not, which guides the course of treatment.

Treatment options for TNBC

The first line of treatment for TNBC is chemotherapy. This is because chemotherapy targets all rapidly dividing cells – including cancer cells.

After chemotherapy, surgery is usually the next step. Surgery helps to remove the tumor from the breast and nearby tissues.

If the cancer has spread to surrounding lymph nodes, the doctors may perform radiation treatment to target it.

The treatment plan for TNBC is usually customized to suit the individual needs of the patient, depending on the size of the tumor, the stage of the cancer, and the health of the patient.

Surviving and living with TNBC

The survival rates of TNBC are lower than other types of breast cancer, but they have improved over the years.

Patients who detect TNBC early and undergo appropriate treatment have a higher chance of survival. Also, those who maintain a healthy lifestyle and seek support from family and friends have better outcomes.

Fighting TNBC can take a toll on one’s mental and emotional wellbeing. It is important to surround oneself with a support system throughout the treatment process. Patients can join support groups or seek professional help if needed.

Conclusion

Triple Negative Breast Cancer is a challenging form of breast cancer that affects thousands of women worldwide. However, early detection, an appropriate treatment plan, and support from loved ones can help increase the chances of survival.

Regular breast examinations and self-examinations are vital in detecting breast cancer early. Women should also lead a healthy lifestyle to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.

Battling TNBC can be challenging, but with the right information, support, and medical care, it is possible to overcome.