Symptoms of triple-negative breast cancer: Why spotting it early could save your life

Breast cancer: Triple negative breast cancer tends to be more aggressive and is often linked to genetic mutations like BRCA1, say experts (Image: Pexels)

There’s a type of breast cancer which doesn’t play by the usual rules. It’s called triple-negative breast cancer, or TNBC, and it’s giving doctors a tougher time than most. It is because this type of cancer doesn’t respond to the standard hormone-based treatments, and it grows faster, too.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), TNBC is one of the more aggressive types of breast cancer. It doesn’t have the three usual hormone receptors (estrogen, progesterone, and HER2) that doctors often rely on to treat breast cancer.

That means it doesn’t respond to many standard hormone-based therapies. But that’s no reason to panic. However, it is a good reason to stay informed and alert.

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Triple-negative Breast Cancer: More aggressive

Dr Kanchan Kaur, Senior Director of Breast Surgery, Medanta, The Medicity,  tells Moneycontrol that TNBC affects around 10 to 15 percent of all breast cancer patients, and it’s showing up more often in younger women, especially those under 40. “It tends to be more aggressive and is often linked to genetic mutations like BRCA1. That’s why we always stress the importance of early detection and proper diagnosis,” she says.

Unlike many other types of breast cancer, TNBC doesn’t have estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors — the usual targets for most breast cancer drugs. That’s where the name comes from: triple negative.

And because those receptors are missing, the treatment options have to be completely different—and often more intense. It also means the cancer can grow and spread more quickly, which is why early detection can make all the difference.

Also read | How you can improve life after an early breast cancer diagnosis: from treatment plans to lifestyle habits

Symptoms of triple-negative breast cancer

Dr Kaur shares the symptoms you need to look for and the warning signs your body gives:

• A hard, immovable lump in the breast
• Unusual changes in breast shape or size
• Skin that looks dimpled or puckered
• Nipple pulling inwards or odd discharge
• Persistent aches in the breast or underarm area

Treatment tips:

Says Dr Kaur, “We usually start with chemotherapy, followed by surgery—either a mastectomy or lumpectomy, depending on the case. Radiation is often added, and if the patient is BRCA1 positive, we look at preventive options like oophorectomy as well.”

Add in genetic counselling, physiotherapy, nutritional support, and yes — even yoga and stress management, and you’ve got a personalised care plan that treats the whole person, not just the tumour.

FAQs on Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

1. What are the common symptoms of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)?

Common symptoms include a hard, immovable lump in the breast, unusual changes in breast shape or size, skin dimpling or puckering, nipple pulling inward or unusual discharge, and persistent aches in the breast or underarm area.

2. How does TNBC differ from other types of breast cancer?

TNBC lacks the three hormone receptors (estrogen, progesterone, and HER2) that are typically targeted by most breast cancer treatments, making it more aggressive and harder to treat with standard therapies.

3. Who is most at risk for TNBC?

TNBC is more common in younger women, especially those under 40, and is often linked to genetic mutations like BRCA1. Around 10 to 15 percent of all breast cancer patients are affected by TNBC.

4. Why is early detection of TNBC important?

Early detection is crucial because TNBC tends to grow and spread more quickly than other types of breast cancer. Recognising symptoms early can improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.

5. What are the typical treatment options for TNBC?

Treatment usually starts with chemotherapy, followed by surgery (mastectomy or lumpectomy), and radiation. For patients with BRCA1 mutations, preventive measures like oophorectomy may be considered. Genetic counselling, physiotherapy, nutritional support, and stress management are also part of a personalised care plan.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis