Does brain tumour affect only older adults? Bursting common myths about brain tumours

A common misconception is that brain tumours always cause severe symptoms to appear immediately. On the other hand, a brain tumour's symptoms might differ greatly and may appear gradually over time. (Image: Canva)

Many people have misconceptions and concerns about brain tumours, which contributes to the general misinformation and worry about this complicated medical condition. To promote timely medical intervention and proper awareness, it is imperative to debunk these myths.

Here are some common myths listed by Dr Vipul Gupta, director of Neurointervention and co-chief of the stroke unit at Artemis hospital, Gurugram

Myth: All brain tumours are cancerous

Fact: It is commonly believed that all brain tumours are aggressive and fatal is among the most widely held misconceptions. Brain tumours might really be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). Meningiomas and other benign tumours frequently grow slowly and may not spread to other parts of the body or brain. They are often less aggressive than malignant tumours, yet their location might still result in serious health problems. To comprehend the prognosis and available treatments, it is imperative to distinguish between these categories.

Myth: Brain tumours always cause severe symptoms immediately

Fact: A common misconception is that brain tumours always cause severe symptoms to appear immediately. On the other hand, a brain tumour's symptoms might differ greatly and may appear gradually over time. Persistent headaches, seizures, issues with vision or hearing, personality or cognitive function abnormalities, and so on are common symptoms. Sometimes the symptoms are mild and not immediately associated with a brain tumour, which delays the diagnosis. Early detection frequently hinges on identifying these less conspicuous indicators.

Myth: Mobile phones cause brain tumours

Fact: The concern that radiation from cell phones can induce brain tumours has been discussed extensively. Numerous studies, including ones conducted by the World Health Organization and other organisations, have not produced any solid proof that using a cell phone increases the risk of brain cancers. Although it's always a good idea to use technology sensibly, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the claim that using a cell phone greatly raises the risk of brain tumours.

Myth: Brain tumours are always fatal

Fact: Another widespread misunderstanding is that receiving a brain tumour diagnosis means immediate death. The prognosis for many types of brain tumours has improved dramatically due to advancements in medical technology and treatment. Many patients now have higher survival rates and improved quality of life with to treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and more recent innovations like targeted therapy and immunotherapy. The kind, location, and stage of the tumour at diagnosis are among the many variables that determine the outcome.

Myth: Only older adults get brain tumours

Fact: Although they are more common in older persons, brain tumours can strike anyone at any age, even young adults and children. In actuality, the most prevalent solid tumour in children are brain tumours. Understanding that people of all ages can be affected by brain tumours is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.