WORLD BRAIN TUMOR DAY
Every year on June 8th, World Brain Tumor Day raises awareness and educates people about brain tumors. The day also pays tribute to those affected by brain tumors.
In the United States, over 700,000 people live with brain tumors. In just one year, 84,000 people in the country will be diagnosed with a brain tumor. Brain tumors are either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous.) A malignant tumor is sometimes referred to as brain cancer. This type of cancer falls into the same category as central nervous system cancers. On a global scale, 330,000 children and adults worldwide were diagnosed with cancer of the central nervous system in one year. This number continues to rise along with the mortality rate for brain cancer.
Because of the high mortality rate of brain cancer, it is vital to understand the symptoms. As with most cancers, early detection is key. The earlier a brain tumor is detected, the easier it is to treat. Common symptoms associated with a brain tumor include recurrent headaches, seizures, vision problems, memory loss, and paralysis of certain body parts. Doctors easily detect brain tumors with certain diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan or MRI.
Grade Categorization
Once a malignant brain tumor is detected, it is assigned a specific grade. Here are how these grades are categorized:
- I: The least malignant type of tumor.
- II: Slow-growing tumors that can spread to nearby tissue.
- III: The cells actively reproduce abnormal cells, which grow onto nearby brain tissue.
- IV: The most malignant type of brain tumor that grows rapidly.
Treatment for malignant brain tumors often involves radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. It may also be possible to remove the brain tumor or parts of it surgically. Sometimes a surgeon must remove even benign brain tumors if it is impairing the function of the brain.
HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldBrainTumorDay
Health organizations and healthcare facilities around the world host a variety of events for World Brain Tumor Day. These events include educational seminars, conferences, and fundraisers. The day also focuses on those diagnosed with brain tumors. They are encouraged to share their stories as a way of helping others. People who have lost loved ones to a brain tumor also find ways to remember and honor them.
To participate:
- Reach out to someone who has lost someone to brain cancer or was diagnosed with a brain tumor.
- Donate to an organization that funds research for brain tumors.
- Educate yourself on the topic of brain tumors, symptoms, and treatment options.
- Wear a grey ribbon to promote awareness of brain tumors and brain cancer.
- Learn about famous people who have survived brain tumors, such as Jimmy Carter, Scott Hamilton, Sheryl Crow, and Michelle Stafford.
Spread awareness for this day on social media with #WorldBrainTumorDay.
WORLD BRAIN TUMOR DAY HISTORY
The German Brain Tumour Association started World Brain Tumor Day in the year 2000.
