A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or surrounding tissue, leading to significant health challenges. These tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), with varying degrees of severity. Brain tumours are a significant concern due to their location, as the brain controls essential bodily functions. Understanding where brain tumours fit into the broader list of cancers is important for patients and their families. This read will explain the different types of brain tumours, their impact on health, and their place among common cancers.
Types of Brain Tumours
Brain tumours are classified into two main categories: primary and secondary. Primary brain tumours originate within the brain itself, while secondary (or metastatic) brain tumours develop when cancer cells from other parts of the body spread to the brain.
● Primary Brain Tumours: These include gliomas, meningiomas, and astrocytomas. Gliomas, the most common type, originate in the supportive tissue of the brain. Meningiomas form in the membranes covering the brain, while astrocytomas develop from star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes.
● Secondary Brain Tumours: These occur when cancers such as lung, breast, or melanoma spread to the brain. These tumours are more common than primary brain tumours and represent the brain’s susceptibility to metastatic cancer.
Understanding the specific type of brain tumour is essential for determining the appropriate treatment and prognosis.
Symptoms of Brain Tumours
The symptoms of a brain tumour can vary depending on the size, location, and growth rate of the tumour. Some common symptoms include:
● Headaches: Persistent headaches that worsen over time are a common symptom, often more severe in the morning.
● Seizures: Brain tumours can trigger seizures, even in individuals with no previous history of them.
● Cognitive Changes: Difficulty with memory, concentration, or decision-making can indicate a brain tumour.
● Vision or Hearing Problems: Tumours near the optic or auditory nerves can affect sight and hearing.
● Weakness or Numbness: Tumours that press on motor functions may cause weakness or numbness in one side of the body.
Because these symptoms can also be linked to other medical conditions, early diagnosis is critical for determining whether a brain tumour is the cause.
How Brain Tumours Fit into the List of Cancers
When considering the broader list of cancers, brain tumours are relatively rare but still highly significant due to their complexity and impact on the nervous system. Unlike cancers that develop in other parts of the body, brain tumours directly affect vital functions such as movement, speech, and cognition. This makes them unique in the realm of cancer diagnoses.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognises brain tumours as part of the list of cancers, but they account for only a small percentage of cancer cases worldwide. However, brain tumours can be particularly aggressive, leading to high mortality rates in malignant cases. They also require specialised treatment options, which can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Treatment Options for Brain Tumours
The treatment of brain tumours depends on several factors, including the type, size, and location of the tumour, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatment methods include:
● Surgery: For operable tumours, surgery is often the first line of treatment. Surgeons aim to remove as much of the tumour as possible while minimising damage to healthy brain tissue.
● Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to target and destroy tumour cells. Radiation therapy is often used when surgery is not an option or to eliminate any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
● Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. Chemotherapy is less common for brain tumours compared to other cancers, but it can be effective in certain cases.
● Targeted Therapy: These newer treatments focus on attacking specific cancer cells without harming normal cells, offering a more precise treatment method.
Given the complexity of brain tumours, treatment usually involves a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including neurosurgeons, oncologists, and radiologists, to create a personalised plan.
Prognosis and Survival Rates
The prognosis for individuals diagnosed with a brain tumour varies depending on the tumour’s type, size, and location. Benign brain tumours often have a better prognosis than malignant ones, as they are less likely to spread to other parts of the body. However, even benign tumours can cause significant health problems if they press on critical areas of the brain.
For malignant brain tumours, survival rates can be lower than for other types of cancer. This is largely due to the difficulty in completely removing or treating tumours in such a delicate and complex organ. However, advancements in medical technology and treatment approaches have improved outcomes for many patients.
Conclusion
Brain tumours, though not as common as other cancers on the list of cancers, pose unique challenges due to their location and impact on the central nervous system. Early detection and specialised treatment are crucial in managing brain tumours effectively. By understanding the types of brain tumours, their symptoms, and treatment options, patients and their families can take proactive steps toward better outcomes. Consulting with a medical professional is essential for tailored guidance, and staying informed can make a significant difference in getting a brain tumour diagnosis.
