triple negative breast cancer

triple negative breast cancer

One area that is becoming more prevalent is Triple-Negative breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, this term is used to describe breast cancers whose cells lack estrogen receptors and progesterone receptors, and do not have an excess of the HER2 protein on their surfaces. Breast cancers with these characteristics tend to occur more often in younger women and in African-American women. Triple-negative breast cancers tend to grow and spread more quickly than most other types of breast cancer, because the tumor cells lack these certain receptors, neither hormone therapy nor drugs that target HER2 are effective against these cancers.

"There is a class of experimental drugs, not available yet, but very promising for this type of breast cancer," stated Dr. Pestana. "Parp Inhibitors is a promising drug, which has demonstrated significant anti-tumor effects. This experimental class of drugs has the potential to impair tumor growth without damaging the normal cells. It will have its place in treating triple negatives." Despite the advances in treatment and available support programs, the cancer journey can feel very lonely. Allowing the support of family members and friends can pave the way and ease the treatment process.

The walk through treatment can be a very challenging and difficult journey. While it's important to focus on treatment, it's also crucial for patients to consider their emotional, psychological and spiritual health as well. According to the American Cancer Society, it's critical for patients to make healthy choices and feel physically and emotionally well. There are a number of initiatives to smooth the cancer journey. The American Cancer Society provides newly diagnosed women and those living with breast cancer with a number of programs to support them through the steps of the treatment process. Among these is Reach to Recovery, which helps newly diagnosed patients cope with their breast cancer experience; trained volunteers provide a measure of comfort, emotional support and help for new breast cancer patients. Other programs and resources, like the Look Good...Feel Better program help breast cancer patients mask the physical side effects of treatment.