From awareness to action: understanding triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)
Early detection is important for this aggressive type of breast cancer. Learn more about the risk factors, signs and symptoms of TNBC.
September 29, 2025
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the U.S. There are many different types and subtypes of breast cancer — defined by where it starts in the breast, how much it has grown or spread, and how it behaves. One of the more aggressive and difficult-to-treat types is triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), and knowing the facts is one of the most important steps in a patient’s cancer journey.
What is TNBC?
Breast cancer tumors may be tested for three receptors, or proteins, that make cancer grow. A TNBC diagnosis is made when the tumor tests negative for estrogen and progesterone receptors and does not over express HER2.
TNBC differs from other types of invasive breast cancer, as it tends to grow and spread faster, with a worse prognosis for patients. It also has a high likelihood of recurrence.
Approximately 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Approximately 10-15% of these diagnoses are TNBC.
Who’s at risk of developing TNBC?
While TNBC can affect anyone, some people may be at higher risk. Factors that make someone more likely to be diagnosed with TNBC include:
- Sex: People assigned female at birth are at higher risk for TNBC compared to people assigned male at birth.
- Race/ethnicity: TNBC disproportionately affects Black women. Nearly 20% of breast cancers diagnosed in Black women are TNBC.
- Age: TNBC is more common in women younger than 40.
- Genetic mutations: Mutations in certain genes are associated with TNBC.
What are the signs and symptoms of TNBC?
TNBC may have the same signs and symptoms as other common types of breast cancer, though most breast cancers are detected before any symptoms appear through regular screenings.
Possible signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:
- A new breast lump or mass
- Swelling of all or part of a breast
- Skin dimpling
- Breast or nipple pain
- Nipple retraction
- Nipple or breast skin that’s red, dry, flaking or thickened
- Nipple discharge
- Swollen lymph nodes, under the arm or near the collar bone
Our commitment to access to health
We recognize that barriers like limited access to screening and quality care, differences in potential risks and other factors continue to fuel disparities among those disproportionately affected by breast cancer. That’s why it’s critical to ensure those who need it have access to care and support early enough in their journey to benefit them. Through a combination of digital support tools and resources, we’re closing care gaps and helping patients overcome barriers to care, no matter where they are in their journey.
Early detection of breast cancer isn't just important — it could be life-saving. That’s why we’re focused on helping women get the care they need.
— Josette Gbemudu
AVP, patient health innovationNavigating breast cancer, especially aggressive types like TNBC, can be daunting and for some — overwhelming. However, access to information and the right tools and resources can contribute to a more equitable patient journey for those impacted. By equipping patients to make better informed decisions, we can help them to advocate and determine the best path forward.
”We focus our work on making the most impact for patients — from advancing science to help patients living with this condition to creating patient-friendly education materials. We’re committed to improving outcomes for breast cancer patients, globally,” said Dr. Karen Lisa Smith, senior principal scientist.
Learn more about our commitment to expanding access to health.
