World brain tumour day is observed on 8th of June every year since 2000. This day first observed by German Brain Tumour Association (Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe e.V.). This is a non-profit organisation which raises public awareness and educates people about brain tumour. Malignant brain tumour is very common in Germany as more than 8,000 people suffer from these diseases only in Germany. More than 500 new cases are diagnosed with brain tumour everyday worldwide. Number of patients with tumours that cause brain metastases is even higher than that. This is the most common type of cancer among children.
The incidence and prevalence of brain tumour is growing in India. According to a study on childhood cancer, brain tumour is commonest in girls and even in both sexes in adults although there is some variation amongst states.
Government of India has introduced National Cancer Control Programme with the objectives of prevention, screening, early detection, diagnosis and treatment including palliative care in end stage.
What is Brain Tumour?
Unnecessary growth of cells when body don’t require them is known as cancer. A brain tumour occurs when abnormal cells produce within any part of brain. There are two main types of tumours namely, malignant and benign tumours.
Some Facts about Brain tumour :
Brain tumour can occur at any age.
The exact cause of brain tumour is not clear.
The symptoms of brain tumour depend on their size, type, and location.
The most common type of primary brain tumour 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 tumour.
Brain tumours are diagnosed by the doctor based on the results of a medical history and physical examination and various specialized tests of the brain and nervous system.
Options for brain tumour treatment include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy or a combination of treatments .
What are the symptoms of brain tumour?
The brain tumours may produce symptoms that vary depending on the part of the brain they begin. Some common symptoms are headaches, seizures, problem with vision, vomiting, and mental changes. Patient may feel headache and vomiting in the morning. More specific problems may include difficulty in walking, speaking and sensation.
What are the available treatments for Brain tumour?
Doctors may suggest following treatments according to their type, grade, and position of tumour and general health of patient.
Surgery
Radiotherapy
Chemotherapy
Steroids
Anti-seizure medication
Ventricular peritoneal shunt
(Ref : https://www.nhp.gov.in/World-Brain-Tumour-Day_pg & kleiner-kalender.de)