Can Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) be prevented?

November 11, 2024

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, which are the common targets in breast cancer treatments. TNBC tends to progress faster than other types and offers fewer targeted treatment options, making prevention and early detection crucial. While there’s no surefire way to prevent TNBC, specific lifestyle choices, regular screenings, and awareness of resources can significantly reduce risk and promote overall breast health. Below are lifestyle recommendations, screening advice, and a list of helpful resources for those in Central Ohio looking to proactively manage their health.

Risk Factors for TNBC TNBC disproportionately affects Black women and those carrying genetic mutations like BRCA1. Although genetic predispositions are unchangeable, understanding individual risk factors can inform better preventive measures and early detection.

Five Steps to Lower TNBC Risk

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight Studies link obesity with increased cancer risks, including TNBC. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, alongside regular physical activity, can reduce inflammation linked to cancer.
2. Exercise Regularly Physical activity, such as 30 minutes of moderate exercise (e.g., brisk walking) five days a week, can boost immune function and reduce inflammation, supporting overall health and cancer prevention.
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption Even moderate alcohol intake is associated with higher breast cancer risk. Reducing or eliminating alcohol can contribute to lowering this risk.
4. Consider Genetic Counseling If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, genetic counseling can assess your risk level and suggest testing for mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, linked to a heightened risk of TNBC.
5. Stay Proactive with Screenings Although mammograms don’t prevent TNBC, they can detect it early, improving treatment success. If you’re at higher risk, talk to your doctor about additional or earlier screenings.

Resources for Free Mammograms and Support in Central Ohio

Screening Resources

• Ohio Breast and Cervical Cancer Project (BCCP): Provides free mammograms for uninsured or underinsured women. For eligibility, call (614) 466-3543 or visit BCCP online.
• Mount Carmel Mobile Mammography: Offers free or low-cost mammograms at various Columbus locations. Call (614) 234-7400 or check the schedule.
• LifeCare Alliance’s Breast Health Program: Provides mammograms to underserved communities. Contact LifeCare Alliance at (614) 278-3130 or visit their site.
• OhioHealth Financial Assistance: Offers financial help for mammograms at OhioHealth Women’s Health Centers. Call (614) 566-1111 or learn more here.

Transportation Assistance

• American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery Program: Free rides to cancer treatment appointments. For more, visit ACS’s Road to Recovery.
• COTA Mainstream Service: Affordable transportation options to healthcare facilities in Columbus. Call (614) 275-5800 or visit COTA Mainstream.

Financial Assistance Options

• Healthcare.gov: Provides affordable health insurance options and preventive coverage, including mammograms. Explore coverage options.
• Patient Advocate Foundation: Offers financial aid to cover cancer-related expenses. Learn more through the Patient Advocate Foundation.

A Beacon of Light for Our Community Through this newsletter, my aim is to be a beacon of light, especially for those in communities with limited resources or knowledge about breast cancer. Education and support can be life-saving, and by spreading awareness, I hope to empower more individuals to advocate for their health, leading to better, healthier, and longer lives.

How You Can Support

• Stay Subscribed to receive each new issue filled with insights and resources.
• Share this with anyone who might benefit from the information provided.
• Comment with your feedback, questions, or suggestions for future topics.

Sources

• CDC: TNBC statistics and prevention insights. Visit CDC.gov.
• American Cancer Society: Information on breast cancer risk factors and prevention strategies. Visit Cancer.org.
• Ohio Department of Health – BCCP: Free screening details and eligibility. Ohio Department of Health.
• Patient Advocate Foundation: Financial aid for cancer patients. Visit Patient Advocate Foundation.
• LifeCare Alliance: Mammogram resources for underserved areas. Visit LifeCare Alliance.
• Mount Carmel Health System: Mobile mammography services in Columbus. Call (614) 234-7400 or learn more.

This guide is here to empower and support you in taking proactive steps toward your health, with accessible resources and community support available right here in Central Ohio.