What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer?

November 11, 2024

Understanding Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Guide for the Black Community in Central Ohio

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of breast cancer that disproportionately impacts Black individuals, especially Black women, who face higher incidence and mortality rates. Diagnosed with TNBC in October 2023, I’m committed to sharing knowledge in our community to save lives through awareness and early detection.

What is Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)? TNBC is a subtype of breast cancer that lacks three key receptors: estrogen, progesterone, and HER2. As a result, it doesn’t respond to common breast cancer treatments and often spreads more aggressively. Black women are nearly twice as likely as white women to develop TNBC and face significant challenges in accessing timely care and treatment.

TNBC in Central Ohio’s Black Community Black women in Ohio experience higher rates of TNBC, particularly in underserved neighborhoods such as South Linden, Hilltop, and the Near East Side in Columbus. These areas often have limited access to healthcare, fewer free mammogram facilities, and high rates of uninsured residents. Addressing these disparities through accessible resources and screenings is crucial to improving health outcomes.

Where to Get Free or Low-Cost Mammograms in Central Ohio

Early detection is vital for TNBC, and the following resources provide free or low-cost mammograms in Columbus:

1. Ohio Breast and Cervical Cancer Project (BCCP): BCCP provides free mammograms for uninsured women. Find eligibility details here or call (614) 466-3543.
2. Mount Carmel Mobile Mammography: This mobile unit offers screenings in Columbus neighborhoods, focusing on uninsured women. Call (614) 234-7400 for the schedule.
3. LifeCare Alliance’s Breast Health Program: Provides mammograms to uninsured women in underserved areas. Contact LifeCare Alliance or call (614) 278-3130.
4. OhioHealth Women’s Health Centers: Many locations offer financial assistance for mammograms. Contact the Downtown office at (614) 566-1111.

Transportation Assistance

For those facing transportation issues, here are resources to help:

• American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery Program: Offers free rides to treatment. Learn more here.
• COTA Mainstream Service: COTA provides low-cost transportation to healthcare facilities. Call (614) 275-5800 or visit COTA Mainstream.

Financial Help for Uninsured Individuals If you’re uninsured, there are options for assistance:

Patient Advocate Foundation: Provides financial assistance for cancer-related expenses. Visit here.

Healthcare.gov: Information on affordable health insurance options and mammogram coverage. Visit Healthcare.gov.

Stay Informed

Raising awareness in our community is essential. Encourage friends and family to get screened, and subscribe to my newsletter for more resources and updates on TNBC.

Sources: Ohio Department of Health, American Cancer Society, Mount Carmel Mobile Mammography, LifeCare Alliance, Patient Advocate Foundation, Healthcare.gov