Overview of Brain Tumours
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or its surrounding tissues. While not all brain tumours are cancerous, both benign and malignant tumours can cause significant health issues depending on their size, location, and growth rate. Early detection is crucial for improving treatment outcomes. As medical technology and neurosurgery advance, more patients are experiencing improved prognoses. However, brain tumours remain a major global health concern, underscoring the importance of awareness for early diagnosis and better survival rates.
Prevalence and Importance of Brain Tumour Awareness
Brain tumours rank as the second most common cancer in children and the tenth in adults. In Korea, which boasts advanced healthcare systems, brain tumour rates are steadily rising. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumours make up about 2% of all cancer cases. Public awareness campaigns are vital for promoting early detection, reducing misdiagnoses, and encouraging prompt medical intervention. Recognizing symptoms like persistent headaches or changes in cognition can lead to earlier diagnoses, improving treatment outcomes.
Types of Brain Tumours
Brain tumours are classified into benign and malignant types, each with different implications for treatment and prognosis.
Benign Brain Tumours: Non-cancerous, these grow slowly and typically do not spread. However, their location can still lead to serious health issues. Common benign tumours include meningiomas and pituitary adenomas. While they rarely metastasize, surgical removal may be necessary depending on their size and impact.
Malignant Brain Tumours: These are cancerous tumours that grow aggressively and can spread. Glioblastomas, one of the most aggressive forms, are often fatal. Treatment often involves surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Other malignant tumours include astrocytomas and medulloblastomas.
Primary vs. Secondary Tumours: Primary brain tumours originate in the brain, while secondary tumours (metastatic) spread from other cancers, such as lung or breast cancer. Secondary brain tumours are more common in adults and present unique challenges for treatment.