How can I manage my triple-negative breast cancer at age 35?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 35-year-old woman, and I have just been diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. Please answer a few of my questions:

I have heard this type is more common in younger women like me. Is that true?
What are my chances compared to older women?
I am also worried because I read somewhere that women my age are at higher risk for this type of cancer. Can you explain why?
What does this mean for my treatment and prognosis?
Should my sisters or cousins get checked earlier than usual?
I am scared and confused about what this diagnosis means for me and my family. What can I do to improve my odds?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Triple-negative breast cancers are a less aggressive form of breast cancer, and the recurrence rate is a little higher compared with hormone-positive breast cancers. Triple-negative breast cancers are treated with chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and they usually respond well to this treatment. Surgery and radiation therapy are part of the treatment for other breast cancers.

Yes, this type of breast cancer is more common in younger or premenopausal women, and many of them have BRCA (breast cancer) genetic mutations. These are inherited genetic mutations that increase cancer risk. So, it is recommended to do BRCA genetic testing, and if it proves to be positive, other family members should also go for screening and BRCA testing.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.