Understanding Brain Tumours: Are They All Cancerous?

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Understanding Brain Tumours: Are They All Cancerous?

Every year, World Brain Tumour Day reminds us to demystify these complex conditions. A common question arises: Are all brain tumours cancerous? The answer is no, and understanding this distinction is vital for reducing fear and promoting timely care. Let’s explore what brain tumours are, their types, symptoms, and treatments while integrating the latest data and insights.

What Is a Brain Tumour?

A brain tumour is an abnormal cell growth that develops in or near the brain. It can develop in the brain (primary) or spread from other cancers throughout the body (metastatic). Tumours are classified into two main categories:

Benign (non-cancerous): Slow-growing, with clear borders. Common examples include meningiomas—the most frequent primary brain tumours in adults—and pituitary adenomas, which develop in the gland that controls hormone production. Though non-cancerous, they can still cause severe symptoms if they press on critical brain areas.
Malignant (cancerous): Aggressive tumours like glioblastoma that invade nearby tissue and may spread. These require urgent treatment.

What Is Brain Cancer?

Brain cancer refers specifically to malignant tumours. While all brain cancers are tumours, only about 33% of brain tumours are cancerous. Malignant tumours disrupt brain function rapidly, whereas benign tumours may grow slowly over the years.

Symptoms to Watch For

Headaches that tend to worsen in the morning or during activities like coughing or sneezing.
Nausea, vomiting, or balance issues.
Vision changes, seizures, or speech difficulties.
Personality shifts or memory problems.
In children, watch for persistent morning headaches, unexplained sleepiness, or sudden vision/hearing changes.

Causes and Risk Factors

Radiation exposure (e.g., prior cancer treatment).
Genetic syndromes like neurofibromatosis.
A weakened immune system (linked to CNS lymphoma).
Contrary to popular belief, no strong evidence ties cell phones or power lines to brain tumours, though research continues.

Locations and Types

Adults: Meningiomas (benign), Glioblastomas (malignant), Pituitary tumors
Children: Pilocytic astrocytomas (often benign), Medulloblastomas (malignant), Brainstem gliomas

In adults, 35% of tumours arise in the meninges or pituitary gland, while paediatric tumours often affect the cerebellum or brainstem.

Brain Tumours in Children

Paediatric brain tumours are the most common childhood cancer, with ~5,230 new U.S. cases annually. Key types:

Medulloblastoma: A fast-growing tumour in the cerebellum, treatable with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Pilocytic astrocytoma: Often cystic and cured by surgery alone.
Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG): A high-risk brainstem tumour.

Diagnosis

Doctors use imaging and tests like:

Noticed warning signs like persistent headaches or confusion? Take action now—get the right diagnosis and care plan before complications arise.

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