World Brain Tumor Day

World brain tumor day is observed on 8th of June every year since 2000. This day first observed by German Brain Tumor Association (Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe e.V.). This is a non-profit organization which raises public awareness and educates people about brain tumor. The incidence and prevalence of brain tumor is growing in India. According to a study on childhood cancer, brain tumor is commonest in girls and even in both sexes in adults although there is some variation amongst states.

Unnecessary growth of cells when body don’t require them is known as cancer. A brain tumor occurs when abnormal cells produce within any part of brain. There are two main types of tumors namely, malignant and benign tumors.

Facts about Brain Tumor

  • The exact cause of brain tumor is not clear.
  • The symptoms of brain tumor depend on their size, type, and location.
  • The most common type of primary brain tumor among adults are astrocytoma, meningioma, and oligodendroglioma.
  • The most common type of primary brain tumours in children are medulloblastoma, grade I or II astrocytoma, (or glioma) ependymoma, and brain stem glioma.
  • Family history and high dose X-rays are risk factors for brain tumor.

Symptoms

The brain tumors may produce symptoms that vary depending on the part of the brain they begin. Some common symptoms are

  • Headaches that are ongoing or severe; or go away after vomiting.
  • Behavior or personality changes.
  • Difficulty with balance or coordination.
  • Trouble concentrating and Confusion.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Numbness, weakness or tingling in one part or side of the body or face.
  • Problems with hearing, vision or speech.
  • Unusual sleepiness.
  • Trouble with memory, thinking, speaking or understanding language.

Treatment

Doctors may suggest following treatments according to their type, grade, and position of tumor and general health of patient.

  • Surgery
  • Radiotherapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Steroids
  • Anti-seizure medication
  • Ventricular peritoneal shunt

Prevention

You cannot prevent a brain tumor. You can reduce your risk of developing a brain tumor by avoiding environmental hazards such as smoking and excessive exposure to radiation.