World Brain Tumour Day 2024: Understanding the Growth of Abnormal Cells

World Brain Tumour Day 2024: Understanding the Growth of Abnormal Cells

India TV News

Every year on June 8th, the world unites to raise awareness about the grave impact of brain tumours. This year, World Brain Tumour Day 2024 will focus on the crucial need for early detection and effective treatment.

What are Brain Tumours?

Brain tumours are abnormal growths of cells within the brain. These growths can be either cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). Malignant tumours spread aggressively and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Signs and Symptoms

Early detection is paramount in improving outcomes. Common signs and symptoms of brain tumours may include:

Persistent headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Vision problems
Seizures
Numbness and weakness
Memory loss and cognitive decline

Risk Factors

While the exact causes of brain tumours are unknown, certain factors may increase the risk:

Ionizing radiation exposure
Family history of brain tumours
Weakened immune system
Exposure to certain chemicals

Types of Brain Tumours

There are numerous types of brain tumours, classified based on their location, cell type, and behaviour. Some common types include:

Gliomas: Tumours originating from glial cells, which support neurons.
Meningiomas: Tumours arising from the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
Pituitary tumours: Tumours affecting the pituitary gland, responsible for hormone production.
Medulloblastomas: Aggressive tumours commonly seen in children.

Treatment

Treatment options for brain tumours vary depending on the type, location, and stage of the tumour. Common treatments include:

Surgery: Removal of the tumour through a craniotomy.
Radiation therapy: High-energy radiation to shrink the tumour.
Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
Targeted therapy: Employing drugs that target specific genetic mutations.

Support and Resources

Living with a brain tumour can be physically and emotionally challenging. There are numerous support groups and resources available to provide guidance and assistance:

American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA)
National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS)
Cancer Research UK

Conclusion

World Brain Tumour Day 2024 serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection, effective treatment, and ongoing support for those affected by this debilitating condition. By spreading awareness, we can encourage timely diagnosis, improve outcomes, and provide hope to countless individuals and families facing the challenges posed by brain tumours.

Keywords: World Brain Tumour Day, Brain Tumours, Malignant, Benign, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Gliomas, Meningiomas, Pituitary tumours, Medulloblastomas, Treatment, Surgery, Radiation therapy, Chemotherapy, Targeted therapy, Support, American Brain Tumor Association, National Brain Tumor Society, Cancer Research UK