Cultural and Environmental Factors of Triple-Negative Breast Carcinomas

Abstract

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the world. The triple-negative breast cancer subtype is associated with poorer prognosis than hormone receptor-positive subtypes and is more prevalent among African Americans than white, European Americans. The goal of this study has been to elucidate environmental, hormonal, and cultural factors that may be contributing to this disparity in an effort to identify modifiable risk factors and improve triple-negative breast cancer outcomes. Factors that may impact risk include vitamin D defiency, hormonal factors, environmental and dietary exposure, radiation exposure, and obesity. These factors may disproportionately affect African American women as a result of socioeconomic status, lifestyle, and cultural norms. Furthermore, disparities in prognosis may be compounded by barriers such as access to healthcare, prevention education, and perceptions of healthcare. Both biological and sociocultural factors impacting risk must be addressed in order for future prevention and treatment efforts to succeed.