Brain Cancer: What You Need to Know
Not All Tumors Are Equal
There are many different varieties of tumors that a brain cancer patient may have. Each variety of tumor has distinct characteristics that affect factors like treatment method and patient prognosis. These tumors are classified by the type of cell the tumors start in.
Types of brain tumors
Gliomas are tumors that start in glial cells. They account for about 30% of brain tumors and grow the most rapidly of any brain tumor type. Meningiomas start in the meninges, or outer layer of the brain, and are the most common brain tumor for adults. Medulloblastomas develop in the primitive nerve cells of the cerebellum, and are likely to spread quickly throughout the central nervous system without treatment. Schwannomas start in the nerve-insulating Schwann cells of the central nervous system. Less than 1 in 10 brain tumors are Schwannomas.
The numbers story for brain cancer
Nearly 70,000 new cases of primary brain tumors will be diagnosed this year in the United States. More than 4,600 children between the ages of 0-19 will be diagnosed with a brain tumor this year. Brain and central nervous system tumors are the most common cancers among children ages 0-19. There are nearly 700,000 people in the U.S. living with a brain tumor. This year, nearly 14,000 people will lose their battle with a brain tumor.
Cancer in the Brain May Indicate Cancer in the Body
Brain tumors can be either primary—meaning the cancer started in the brain—or secondary/metastatic—meaning the cancer started elsewhere in the body and later spread to the brain. According to the American Cancer Society, primary brain tumors are actually less common than secondary brain tumors. Therefore, if a tumor is found in the brain, doctors may check other bodily organs and tissues for the presence of cancerous cells.
You May Be At Risk
Though the exact cause of brain cancer is not known in many cases, there are several factors that are known to increase the risk of developing brain tumors. The only brain tumor risks that are listed by the American Brain Tumor Association are exposure to ionizing radiation, and genetic mutations occurring on chromosomes 1, 10, 13, 17, 19, and 22.
Beware of Ambiguous Warning Signs
Patients experiencing symptoms of brain cancer such as headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, balance problems, personality or behavior changes, seizures, and drowsiness can and often are misdiagnosed with other health conditions like migraines and/or mental health disorders. Be vigilant in monitoring the symptoms you are experiencing, especially if they are worsening despite treatment. If you feel that you aren’t receiving the proper diagnosis or treatment for your illness, seek out a doctor specializing in neurology (neurologist) or cancer treatment (oncologist).
A Diagnosis is Not a Death Sentence
Brain cancer is popularly thought of as a quickly progressing, fast-killing cancer. However, this is often not the case, especially with new and developing treatment technologies. The five-year survival rate is now as high as 92% for brain cancer patients with meningiomas, 91% for those with ependymomas, and 85% for those with oligodendrogliomas.
Research Sees a Brighter Future
Nearly $176.8 million of the National Cancer Institute’s annual $4.79 billion budget is dedicated to brain and central nervous system cancer research. Improvements in detection and treatment technologies have led to prolonged lifespans and lessened side effects for brain cancer patients.
New treatments mean brighter outlook
According to the American Cancer Society, resting too much while in treatment or recovery can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life, causing loss of body function, muscle weakness, and a reduced range of motion. Moderate exercise that is within a patient’s personal limits can help to lessen many side effects of brain cancer treatment including fatigue, nausea, and the loss of body coordination.
Be Proactive Throughout Treatment
Since the cancer treatment field is continually evolving and new technologies are being developed each year, staying engaged with your care team and treatment plan can help ensure that you get the best, most case-appropriate treatment available. Read up on brain cancer research and be aware of when clinical trials are open to patients with your form of cancer. Find a doctor whom you trust and respect but don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek a second opinion.
Keep Your Body Strong
According to the American Cancer Society, resting too much while in treatment or recovery can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life, causing loss of body function, muscle weakness, and a reduced range of motion. Moderate exercise that is within a patient’s personal limits can help to lessen many side effects of brain cancer treatment including fatigue, nausea, and the loss of body coordination.
Vitamin D is Key
A study on brain cancer patients conducted in 2009 by Finnish scientists suggests that Vitamin D plays a critical role in brain tumor development and growth. According to the report, the highest brain cancer mortality rate occurred when patients who were diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent treatment during the late winter (when sunlight and Vitamin D levels are lowest). Populations furthest from the equator that receive less sunlight and have lower levels of Vitamin D showed the highest incidence rates for brain cancer.
Strong Mind, Strong Brain
A brain cancer diagnosis can be emotionally distressing, especially if it is paired with a relatively short diagnosis or invasive treatment plan. Several studies have proved that taking steps to cope with the emotions brought on by a cancer diagnosis can help to improve your quality of life during treatment and recovery. Seeking support from family and friends, talking openly to loved ones, and participating in cancer patient support groups can offer you the emotional support you may need.
