Last Updated:
Misinformation about brain tumours can accelerate the stress and create panic among patients and their families. An expert busts some common myths and states the facts. Read on.
Accurate info and early intervention are crucial for treating brain tumour.
Observed on June 8 every year, World Brain Tumour Day aims to raise awareness about brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumours – a serious health concern that has claimed countless lives. A brain tumour refers to the abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain, which can be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous).
According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, the cases of central nervous system (CNS) tumours in India range between 5 and 10 cases per 1,00,000 people, showing an increasing trend, and these numbers account for 2% of all malignancies. Misinformation about brain tumours can accelerate the stress and create panic among patients and their families.
On World Brain Tumour Day, Dr Ananda Kumar Mahapatra MS, M. Ch (Neurosurgery) at Apollo Hospitals, Visakhapatnam, debunks five common myths about brain tumours.
Myth 1: All Brain Tumours Are Fatal
Fact: This is the most common myth about brain tumours, and it is not entirely true. Dr Mahapatra explains, “There are two broad categories of tumours: malignant and benign. Benign tumours can be removed easily with the help of surgery. Malignant tumours require a couple of processes, such as radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. However, with today’s improvement in medical technology, brain tumours can be treated easily.” Early detection and intervention can increase a person’s chances of living a healthy life.
Myth 2: Brain Tumours Always Develop In The Brain
Fact: Not always. Dr Mahapatra notes that although some brain tumours do originate in the brain itself (so-called primary tumours), many spread from cancers in the rest of the body, such as the lungs, breast, kidney, or intestines. These are secondary or metastatic brain tumours and outnumber primary ones. So, having a brain tumour doesn’t always imply that the cancer originated there.
Myth 3: Mobile Phones Cause Cancer
Fact: Dr Mahapatra says, “There is no concrete evidence that mobile phone usage causes cancer, but they do exert radiation, which is non-ionising. Though no solid evidence exists for mobile phones causing cancer, any kind of radiation is not good for health. Research is ongoing regarding this, but as of now, nothing concrete has been found.”
Myth 4: Lifestyle Changes Can Prevent Brain Tumours
Fact: Dr Mahapatra says, “Again, there is no evidence as such that lifestyle can prevent brain tumours, as it is not something that is directly impacted by diet or workouts. However, living a healthy lifestyle – proper diet, avoiding tobacco and alcohol – can boost overall health and immunity and reduce the risk of other diseases.”
Myth 5: Everyone With A Brain Tumour Experiences The Same Symptoms
Fact: Dr Mahapatra explains that this can never be true because different people experience different symptoms, which vary based on the location of the tumour, its grade, and its size. Some people do not have any symptoms at all, while others notice significant symptoms that worsen over time and lead to diagnosis.
Brain tumours are a growing health concern in India, but with early diagnosis and prompt medical intervention, they are often treatable. Each individual’s experience with a brain tumour is different, making accurate information and awareness essential for effective care.a
- Location :
Delhi, India, India
- First Published:
