Brain Health: Importance Of Early Detection And Treatment For Brain Tumors

Saving people's lives through timely intervention: Brain tumors can be life-threatening. But, with early detection and prompt treatment, survival rates can improve, and a patient can experience a good-quality life. Read on.

Brain Health: Importance Of Early Detection And Treatment For Brain Tumors (Photo: Freepik)

What is a brain tumor: An abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain, tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Doctors say that they may originate in the brain (primary tumors) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic tumors). These tumors usually affect the brain's normal functioning and lead to serious complications if they are not treated in a timely manner. They can interfere with one's ability to perform daily activities. Brain tumors, therefore, need immediate treatment.

Causes And Risk Factors

According to Dr Nitin Dange, head of department and director of interventional neurology, stroke care and neurosurgery at Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai, the exact cause of brain tumors is not clear, but some risk factors include:

• Family history;
• Prolonged exposure to radiation;
• Weak immunity;
• Genetic conditions like neurofibromatosis;
• Smoking, and certain environmental exposures

"Brain tumors can be seen in people of all age groups -- including children -- although the type and location may differ from person-to-person. One must be extremely cautious when it comes to their neurological age," he warns.

The Symptoms Of Brain Tumor

Watch out for these tell-tale signs and symptoms:

• Persistent headaches (especially worse in the morning);
• Nausea and vomiting;
• Blurred or double vision;
• Seizures;
• Memory problems or confusion;
• Changes in speech or behaviour;
• Weakness or numbness in parts of the body;
• Difficulty with balance or coordination

The doctor warns that these symptoms can also resemble other common health issues, and they are often overlooked. So, timely diagnosis is key to detecting brain tumors and saving the lives of patients.

Complications

• Permanent brain damage
• Loss of speech, movement, or vision
• Seizure disorders
• Personality changes
• Risk of cancer spreading
• Death

Why Timely Diagnosis Is Important

According to Dr Dange, early diagnosis of brain tumors can help with the process of treatment and its outcome. "Advanced imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans help doctors detect tumors accurately and initiate timely intervention. When identified early, some brain tumors can be tackled with the help of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted treatments," he explains.

Timely treatment helps:

• Preserve brain function;
• Reduce tumor size or stop growth;
• Improve survival rates;
• Minimise long-term disability;
• Offer a better quality of life;

For patients and their families, early action means hope, the doctor says, adding that it also allows health experts to plan an "effective course of action" before the tumor causes "irreversible damage".

1. Paying attention to early symptoms and seeking medical help immediately can save lives.
2. Regular check-ups, awareness, and timely intervention can help manage brain tumors and enhance the quality of life of patients.
3. If you or a loved one experiences unusual neurological symptoms, it is necessary to seek timely treatment for successful outcomes.
4. Be attentive and report all symptoms to the doctor without delay.