More than 20,000 Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone. That equates to 57 people every day.
And more than 3200 will lose their lives to breast cancer this year.
Breast Cancer Trials will be holding a free, virtual Q&A about triple negative breast cancer on October 24 from 4.30-6pm hosted by Annabel Crabb and featuring experts and patients.
It has been timed to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held every October.
A Breast Cancer Trials spokeswoman said about 15 per cent of all breast cancers are triple negative.
"It is a type of breast cancer that does not have the three most common type of receptors known to make most breast cancers grow," she said.
"Triple negative breast cancer is a more aggressive cancer that usually occurs at an earlier age. Early detection is vital because it is so aggressive.
"It is also more likely to recur within two to three years of diagnosis.
"It has a greater chance of developing into a metastatic stage and has poorer clinical outcomes as shown by higher relapse rates and lower survival rates. Because it does not have receptors that can be targeted by medications, it has fewer treatment options available."
Symptoms can include:
- New lump in the breast, armpit area or around the collarbone;
- Change in breast size or shape;
- Changes to the nipple, such as sores or crusting, an ulcer or inverted nipple;
- Clear or bloody nipple discharge;
- Changes to the skin including redness, puckering or dimpling (an "orange peel" appearance);
- Breast tenderness or pain.
Anyone can be diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer and people should be aware of their personal risk factors.
Standard treatment of early stage triple negative breast cancer typically includes surgery, chemotherapy and a course of radiotherapy.
Often chemotherapy is given before breast surgery as it can effectively reduce the size of the cancer while providing useful information about the effectiveness of the treatment being given.
- breastcancertrials.org.au to register for Q&A events.
The diary that can save lives
The Breast Cancer Trials 2024 Women's Health Diary is a unique way to support the research and work that goes into changing breast cancer statistics.
The A5 diary includes all the essential diary features as well as health and wellbeing advice, budget planner, health checklist and weekly motivational tips.
The diary ($19.99) is available from participating Post Offices, newsagencies, Woolworths and online at breastcancertrials.org.au and search for Australian Women's Health Diary.
Therese Murray
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
