Approximately 33,000 New Incidents of Brain Tumours Detected Each Year in India: Expert

Approximately 33,000 New Incidents of Brain Tumours Detected Each Year in India: Expert

Keywords: Brain tumour, India, incidence, neuro-oncology, healthcare

According to a renowned neuro-oncology expert, approximately 33,000 new cases of brain tumours are diagnosed in India annually. This alarming statistic highlights the prevalence of this debilitating condition in the country.

Types of Brain Tumours

Brain tumours can be classified into primary tumours, which originate in the brain, and secondary tumours, which spread to the brain from other parts of the body. Primary brain tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of most brain tumours remains unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified, including:

Age: The risk increases with age.
Genetic mutations: Some inherited gene mutations increase the likelihood of developing brain tumours.
Exposure to radiation: Exposure to ionizing radiation, such as from X-rays and CT scans, can increase the risk.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of brain tumours can vary depending on the location and size of the tumour. Common symptoms include:

Headaches
Seizures
Nausea and vomiting
Vision problems
Weakness or numbness in the limbs

Diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans.

Treatment Options

The treatment of brain tumours depends on the type, location, and stage of the tumour. Treatment options may include:

Surgery: To remove the tumour or a portion of it.
Radiation therapy: To kill cancer cells using high-energy radiation.
Chemotherapy: To deliver drugs to kill cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: To focus treatment on specific molecular characteristics of cancer cells.

Impact on Healthcare

The high incidence of brain tumours in India poses a significant challenge to the healthcare system. It requires specialized infrastructure, skilled neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists.

Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Public awareness campaigns and access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities are essential to combat the rising burden of brain tumours in India.