After Shawna Bramel received a diagnosis of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), she described the empowerment that came with knowledge: “I researched everything and familiarized myself with treatment options so I could make informed decisions for myself.” Like Shawna, many people feel more in control when they understand what makes their type of breast cancer unique.
Here, we’ve compiled an overview of TNBC to orient you with key facts, treatment options and ways to advocate for your care, giving you more power to proceed from an informed place.
What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer?
TNBC is a type of breast cancer defined by what it lacks rather than what it includes. Unlike other breast cancers, TNBC cells test negative for three key biomarkers:
- Estrogen receptors (ER)
- Progesterone receptors (PR)
- HER2 proteins
As a result, TNBC doesn’t respond to hormone therapies (like tamoxifen) or HER2-targeted treatments (like trastuzumab). Instead, treatment more commonly involves chemotherapy, immunotherapies and surgery. Timely care is important with TNBC since it spreads more quickly than hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. Between 15-20% of all breast cancers are triple negative or basal-like tumors and have a higher risk of recurrence in the first 3-5 years; however, if it does not return by then, the risk drops substantially.
Who is Most at Risk for TNBC?
TNBC tends to be more common in:
- Women under age 40: TNBC is disproportionately diagnosed in women under 40 with typically aggressive tumors comprised of rapid cell proliferation, frequently leading to diagnosis at more advanced stages and thus requiring intensive treatment. Young women with TNBC also face unique concerns beyond medical treatment, notably fertility preservation, as certain chemotherapies used for TNBC (e.g., anthracyclines) significantly raise the risk of premature menopause. Diagnosis at a young age can have additional socioeconomic and emotional impacts: Career interruptions, family planning decisions and heightened emotional distress are especially pronounced in this younger age group, underscoring the critical need for tailored approaches. It’s important to discuss your goals for treatment and family planning with your health care provider as early as possible.
- Individuals with a BRCA1 gene mutation: Most breast cancers that develop in people with a BRCA1 mutation are TNBC. BRCA1 plays a key role in repairing DNA damage, and when this function is impaired, cells are more likely to become cancerous. If you have TNBC, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends genetic testing; knowing if you have a genetic mutation like BRCA1 or BRCA2 can both impact your treatment plan and help inform family members about their own risk.
- Black and Hispanic Women in the U.S.: Significant disparities exist for both outcomes and treatments for those diagnosed with TNBC, particularly among minority populations. Black and Hispanic women are more likely to face delays in diagnosis, have limited access to specialized care and experience overall worse outcomes. In fact, Black women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with TNBC than white women, and Hispanic women are also more likely. Research is ongoing to better understand the factors driving these disparities. Results from the Komen-supported EAZ171 clinical trial found that personalizing chemotherapy options for Black women with early-stage breast cancer (including TNBC and others), may help reduce side effects like neuropathy.
Common TNBC Treatments Include:
Clinical Trials and Taking Part in Research
TNBC is an area of active research and clinical trials are critical for developing new treatments. Participating in a clinical trial could give you access to therapies that aren’t widely available yet. Because TNBC is aggressive and has fewer treatment options than other breast cancer types, clinical trials can be especially valuable for your care.
Talk with your health care provider about what may be available and appropriate for you. Komen’s Breast Care Helpline can also provide free, personalized support. If you’re newly diagnosed with breast cancer, consider joining a clinical trial before starting treatment to maximize the amount of trials that might be available to you.
Life After Diagnosis
Some countermeasures that may help reduce the risk of recurrence include exercising; generally, around 150 or more minutes a week is recommended. Limiting alcohol is also recommended. Other healthy lifestyle choices including things like eating a balanced diet and getting sufficient sleep may help support recovery and improve quality of life after treatment. Explore healthy lifestyle guidance for breast cancer survivors.
A breast cancer diagnosis has many impacts beyond the physical body. For example, it can affect your mental and emotional health, and your relationships. This is normal. Seeking support can help you cope with your diagnosis and all that comes with it. There are different ways to get support including calling the Komen Breast Care Helpline, attending a support group, talking one-on-one with another person who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, and connecting with a mental health professional.
A social worker or patient navigator on your health care team can be a source of support for you as well. Your loved ones may also need support as they could be processing your diagnosis in their own way. It’s okay to encourage them to seek support too.
Remember you’re not alone. Many people have been where you are today. While every experience is different, it may be helpful for you to talk about how you’re feeling and get support from others.
Content covered in the Know More Educational Series may be an emerging area in research or technology. Talk with your doctor about what is right for you.
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Downloadable Resource: Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Patient stories:
Shawna’s Story: Hope and Healing After a Triple Negative Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Wendy’s Story: An Unexpected Breast Cancer Diagnosis Leads to Motivation to Do More
Daria’s Story: Faith Over Fear After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Do you need help? We’re here for you. The Komen Patient Care Center is your trusted, go-to source for timely, accurate breast health and breast cancer information, services and resources. Our navigators offer free, personalized support to patients, caregivers and family members, including education, emotional support, financial assistance, help accessing care and more. Get connected to a Komen navigator by contacting the Breast Care Helpline at 1-877-465-6636 or email helpline@komen.org to get started. All calls are answered Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET and Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. Se habla español.
