Brain tumours, also known as brain disorders, are malignant solid tumors of the brain. They are usually located in areas that support the brain such as the forebrain (front portion), midbrain (midsection), and pons (preganglionic zone). However, they may also occur outside of the brain. Brain tumours can affect anyone and are found in people of all ages.
Brain tumours are often found in people who have other types of cancer, especially if these cancers have spread to other parts of the body or if they are invasives. These cancers may also appear in people who have no history or symptoms of having cancer. There are many risk factors that increase your chance of getting a brain tumor, especially if you already have certain conditions such as a head injury or another type of cancer.
Fortunately, there are ways to lower your risk by understanding your potential risks and making lifestyle changes that will keep cancer at bay.
What is a Brain Tumour?
A brain tumour is a cancer that develops in the brain. It is often referred to as an abnormal growth or tumor. The tumour may erupt inside the brain or spread to other parts of the body through the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Depending on the type of brain tumour, the location of the growth may make it difficult or impossible to treat effectively.
Brain tumours are generally slow-growing and low risk, although they may be more common in people with a history of head trauma or certain other conditions.
The three main types of brain cancer are Glioblastoma, Ependymoma, and Neurofibroma.
Cancer is not a part of everyday life; however, it can occur more often in certain individuals due to genetic predisposition, early age of onset, and interactions with other health problems. Additionally, certain chemicals, foods, and medications can increase the risk of developing cancer.
The main factors that increase your cancer risk are obesity, high blood pressure, and a tobacco smoking habit. These risks can be lowered by following a healthy diet, getting enough exercise, quitting smoking, and avoiding substances that cause an increase in body growth.
Unfortunately, there is no effective treatment for cancer so prevention is the key.
Activities that increase your risk of cancer include:
Excessive alcohol intake : especially among people under the age of 25 Inactivity which can be reduced by getting enough exercise
Tobacco smoking : which can cause air pollution, increased heart rate, and increased blood pressure
Chronic inflammation : which can result from a number of different conditions, including autoimmune diseases like lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis Inherited disorders like Nerve
Enteric Neuropathies - which are caused by a variety of factors, including infections and trauma Tumours that develop in the brain can be treated but may not spread.
What Can Cause a Brain Tumour?
The main factors that determine if a brain tumour will develop are age, sex, the type and location of the cancer, and the ability of the person to fight off the cancer. An increased risk of developing a brain tumour is associated with: Indigenous populations that have high rates of inter-generational transmission of tumour genes Alcoholics, including those with a family history of mental illness
People with a higher than average body mass index (BMI) People with a family history of epilepsy People with a genetic disease that affects the uptake of Extra-Cranial Tumour-inducing Stresses on the Nerve People who have undergone radiation therapy
The incidence of a brain tumour is 1 in 500 individuals. 1 Among people over the age of 50, the incidence is 1 in 3.
Different Types of Brain Tumors
- Glioblastoma - Glioblastoma is the most common type of brain cancer and the most aggressive. It presents as a hard, solid mass in the brain that may or may not be filled with distinctive coloured neurons. There are two types of glioblastoma: primaries and twiliys.
- Ependymoma - Ependymoma is the most common type of brain tumor and the most common type ofadenine-based translocation tumor. It is typically found in children and adolescents.
- Nerve- Enteric Neuropathies - Nerve-enteric neuropathies (NETs) are rare cancers in the CNS that can result from infections, trauma, and other causes. They may also occur secondary to medication side effects. Treatment for the different types of brain tumours is similar. The main difference is the extracranial approach and the use of radiotherapy.
Depending on your health condition and the type of brain tumour, your healthcare provider will recommend a treatment plan. Depending on your age, your sex, and your health, your healthcare provider will also discuss possible side effects and provide you with information and advice on alternatives to your current treatment plan.
If you have been diagnosed with a brain tumour, you should know about the following:
- Genetic testing is used to check for possible inherited disorders such as neurofibromatosis and Rett syndrome. Physical and neurological testing is used to detect and manage any symptoms related to the cancer. Activities that will improve your quality of life and decrease your risk of developing new cancers are encouraged. You should discuss your health plans with your healthcare provider to determine if any modifications are needed.
Bladder and Rectal cancers are discussed in the separate article on Urology. Brain Tumours and Nutrition Brain tumours and nutrition don't always go hand in hand, but they do often occur together. The best way to prevent both types of cancer is to maintain a healthy body weight and eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and nuts.
More Information on Brain Tums
If you have a brain tumour and would like more information on the type of cancer or management options available for your type of tumour, please contact your healthcare provider. This may include talking with him or her about potential treatments, side effects, and Nutrition Facts for selected foods. Stay informed and stay healthy.
(1). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/brain-tumours/
(2). https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/brain-tumor/symptoms-and-signs
(3). https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-tumor
(4).https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6149-brain-cancer-brain-tumor
(5). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/brain-tumor/symptoms-causes/syc-20350084