Wrapping Your Brain Around Brain Tumor Statistics
Wrapping Your Brain Around Brain Tumor Statistics
June 8 is World Brain Tumor Day, an annual observance used to raise brain tumor awareness. According to the American Cancer Society, brain and spinal cord tumors may affect more people than you think. Nearly 25,000 new tumors will be diagnosed among adults and children, and nearly 20,000 people will lose their battles with brain and spinal cord tumors this year. Over 100 types of brain tumors have been diagnosed, each with its own symptoms, treatments, and outcomes. Below, Pegalis Law Group, LLC examines brain tumor statistics, symptoms, and treatments to educate our clients and the public.
Who’s Most at Risk for Developing a Brain Tumor?
Experts estimate nearly 700,000 Americans are currently living with a primary brain tumor. However, 72% of these brain tumors are benign (not typically problematic because they don’t spread to other parts of the body). Malignant brain and spinal cord tumors are rare. You have less than a 1% chance of developing one within your lifetime. Women are slightly more at risk of developing a brain tumor, but men are slightly more at risk of developing a malignant one.
The average age of brain tumor diagnosis is 61, with adults over 40 making up most of those diagnosed with brain tumors. Children and young adults can also develop brain tumors, but it’s far less common. Survival rates vary greatly, depending on the type of tumor, how early it was detected and treated, and other factors. Brain cancer is the 10th leading cancer death cause in the United States.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of a Brain Tumor?
Symptoms of a spinal cord or brain tumor will vary. Some may develop gradually or worsen over time, while others may occur suddenly without notice. The most common symptoms usually include:
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Balance issues
- Nausea/vomiting
- Seizures
- Drowsiness or coma
- Personality or behavior changes
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Speech difficulties or changes in speech rhythm
- Hearing loss in one or both ears
- Facial numbness or pain
- Bladder or bowel problems
- Difficulty swallowing or synchronizing eye movements
How Are Brain Tumors Diagnosed and Treated?
Brain and spinal cord tumors can have lasting effects on a person physically, cognitively, and psychologically. If symptoms suggest you may have a brain tumor, imaging tests may be needed to confirm a diagnosis. Your doctor will likely refer you to a neurologist to order detailed imaging through an MRI or CT scan. Once the abnormal area is detected, a biopsy may be needed to examine the tumor tissue. Treatments range from radiation therapy or chemotherapy to targeted drug therapy, alternating electric field therapy, and surgery. The tumor type and location, your age and overall health, and possible side effects will help your doctor determine the appropriate treatment option.
Can You Prevent Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors?
Many brain and spinal cord tumors have no apparent cause. However, there are a few factors that can increase your risk of developing a brain or spinal cord tumor, including:
- Radiation exposure from radiation therapy and imaging tests (x-rays, CT scans, etc.)
- Family history of certain disorders, including Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and 2, Tuberous Sclerosis, Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome, Li-Fraumeni Syndrome, and Turcot Syndrome
- People with weakened immune systems (from birth or due to other cancers or diseases)
- Environmental exposure to vinyl chloride, petroleum products, and other chemicals
Studies have also suggested that cell phones and aspartame (a popular sugar substitute) may increase your risk of developing brain tumors. These claims have not been proven, but the research is ongoing.
Spreading Awareness on Healthcare Topics for 50+ Years
A New York-based personal injury and medical malpractice law firm for 50+ years, Pegalis Law Group, LLC believes in the importance of spreading awareness about healthcare-related topics, including brain and spinal cord tumors. Please visit our website and follow us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to receive more insights to keep you and your loved ones healthy and happy this year.