The treatment plan for triple-negative breast cancer is shaped according to the stage of the patient. Factors such as the size of the cancer, its spread to the axillary lymph nodes, and the speed of tumor growth play a crucial role in determining the treatment. Treatment can be performed surgically, and chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy may be necessary before and/or after surgery. In the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer, shaping the patient's daily lifestyle in a balanced way, maintaining an exercise and nutrition routine can facilitate the treatment. Post-treatment follow-ups are important to prevent the recurrence of the disease.
Contents
How Is Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treated?
The treatment of triple-negative breast cancer can be applied using different methods based on the patient’s condition. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapies can be selected appropriately for the individual.
In the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer, radiation therapy targets cancer cells with high-energy beams. This treatment, often administered after surgery, is used to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. In certain cases, it may also be required before surgery.
During the treatment process for triple-negative breast cancer, patients need to make changes to their daily habits. Healthy eating, avoiding smoking, and regular exercise are factors that can enhance the success of the treatment. These changes can also help the patient feel better psychologically.
Surgery
Surgical methods are commonly used in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. Surgery is particularly effective for cancers diagnosed at an early stage. There are two surgical methods: lumpectomy and mastectomy. Lumpectomy, also referred to as breast-conserving surgery, involves removing the cancerous tissue in the breast along with a small portion of healthy tissue. Most patients undergo radiotherapy after lumpectomy.
Mastectomy, on the other hand, involves the complete removal of the breast tissue. This method is preferred when there are multiple cancerous cells in the breast, the cancer has spread significantly, lumpectomy has previously been performed on the same breast, the cancer is large, or calcification is present in the breast.
Your doctor will determine which surgical method is suitable for you in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a highly effective treatment method for triple-negative breast cancer. Suitable drugs are used to prevent the disease from progressing further and to stop the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or in pill form. It is applied to prevent cancer from spreading from its origin to other organs or bones.
Chemotherapy can be applied both before and after surgery. When administered before surgery, it can increase the success rate of the surgery; when administered after surgery, it can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Among breast cancer types, triple-negative breast cancer is one with a high risk of recurrence after treatment.
In rare cases, chemotherapy may not be administered if the cancer progresses slowly, the cancer is very small, or the potential harm of chemotherapy outweighs the benefits for the patient.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes play an important role in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. Patients should pay attention to these changes to improve their quality of life and make the treatment process easier. Regular exercise, such as aerobic activities, is recommended. Activities like walking, cycling, and swimming can be included. Eating a healthy diet and taking necessary vitamins and minerals, along with consuming fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, are important. To ensure psychological relief, practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques are suggested. If necessary, seeking psychological counseling can help the treatment process be more comfortable and successful.
Post-Treatment Follow-Up for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
After the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer, follow-ups should be conducted every three to six months in the first year based on the patient's condition, and every six months or annually after 4-5 years of treatment. If lumpectomy was the preferred treatment, the breast tissue can be imaged during these follow-ups using ultrasound or mammography methods. During these follow-ups, it is important for the patient to inform the doctor of any symptoms they are experiencing.
