Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

What is it?

Triple-negative breast cancer is an aggressive type of breast cancer that lacks three key receptors: estrogen, progesterone, and HER2. This makes it more difficult to treat.

What are the symptoms?

Lump in the breast or underarm.
Pain or tenderness in the breast area.
Change in the shape or size of the breast.
Skin changes: Redness or dimpling on the breast surface.

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Hormone receptor-positive breast cancer: Can be mistaken for triple-negative, but it responds to hormonal treatments.
Inflammatory breast cancer: A rare but aggressive type of breast cancer that may also cause skin changes.

What are the aggravating factors?

Genetics: Mutations in the BRCA1 gene can increase risk.
Family history: A history of breast cancer can increase the risk of developing triple-negative breast cancer.

What types of food are helpful?

Antioxidant-rich foods: Fruits and vegetables like berries, spinach, and broccoli can help combat oxidative stress.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish and flaxseeds, omega-3s may have anti-cancer properties.
Limit processed foods: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods to support overall health.

What are the traditional treatments?

Chemotherapy: Often the primary treatment since triple-negative cancer doesn't respond to hormonal therapy or HER2-targeted therapy.
Radiation therapy: Post-surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
Surgery: To remove the tumor or entire breast (mastectomy) in some cases.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Turmeric (curcumin): Has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Green tea: Contains polyphenols that may slow the growth of cancer cells.
Flaxseeds: Rich in lignans, which may inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

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