Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer is a type where the cancer cells test negative for oestrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and the HER2 protein. This video explains what this means and how it affects treatment options. When breast cancer is diagnosed, laboratory tests check for certain receptors on the cancer cells. These receptors help doctors understand what is driving the cancer to grow. In triple-negative breast cancer, all three of the common receptors are absent. Because triple-negative breast cancer lacks these receptors, hormone therapy and HER2-targeted treatments are not effective. This may feel concerning at first, but there are still effective treatments available. Triple-negative breast cancer often responds very well to chemotherapy. You may have chemotherapy before surgery, which is called neo-adjuvant treatment. This can shrink the tumour and make surgery more straightforward. It also helps doctors see how well the cancer is responding. Newer treatments are also becoming available. Immunotherapy, which helps your immune system recognise and attack cancer cells, is now used for some people with triple-negative breast cancer. Your clinical team will explain whether this is suitable for your situation. Surgery, and radiotherapy remain important parts of treatment. The type of surgery depends on the size and position of the cancer - and radiotherapy after surgery helps reduce the chance of the cancer returning in the breast, or nearby lymph nodes. Triple-negative breast cancer is sometimes described as faster-growing, which can sound frightening. However, this also means it often responds quickly to treatment. Many people with triple-negative breast cancer are successfully treated, and go on to live cancer-free. People with triple-negative breast cancer may be offered genetic testing, even without a family history. This is because some triple-negative cancers are linked to inherited gene changes such as BRCA1. Knowing this can affect treatment choices and help family members understand their risk. After treatment, you will have regular follow-up appointments. Your clinical team will monitor you closely, particularly in the first few years. If you notice any new symptoms between appointments, it is important to report them straight away. If you have been diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer and have questions, your breast surgeon and breast-care nurse are there to support you. The team will explain your treatment plan, and provide support throughout your journey.