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 What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)?

When I first heard the words Triple Negative Breast Cancer, I didn't realize to what extent I was facing.  The more the doctor explained, the more fearful I became.  I honestly had no idea there were different types of breast cancers.   Triple negative breast cancer stands apart from other types of breast cancer due to its lack of three specific receptors commonly found in other types of breast cancers.  Estrogen, Progesterone, and HER2.    

Unfortunately, the absence of these three receptors makes TNBC a more aggressive type of invasive breast cancer.  It tends to grow and spread faster, and has fewer treatment options.  Basically, my cancer cells don't have estrogen or progesterone receptors and also don't make any of the protein called HER2.  The cancer cells test negative on all three tests.  

Who does it normally affect?

TNBC accounts for about 10-15% of all breast cancers and is more common in women under 40, and in African American, Hispanic, and Indian women.  It's also more common in women with a genetic mutation that predisposes them to breast cancer.  I'm none of the above!  I can't let myself go down the path of asking "why me?"  I won't go that route.  All I can do is focus on fighting this.

What are my treatment options?

TNBC has fewer treatment options than other types of breast cancer, and drugs that target estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors don't work on TNBC.  Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation make up the primary treatment options for TNBC.  My journey to being a triple negative survivor has already started and with God and all the love and support from my family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers praying for me, I know I can do this!  It will not be easy but that just means the reward will be that much sweeter.  


 

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