Access Health Highlights: Brain Tumor Awareness

For Brain Tumor Awareness Month in March, we decided to raise awareness and educate people on brain tumors.

What is a Brain Tumor?

A brain tumor is a growth of cells in the brain or near it. Nearby locations can include nerves, the pituitary gland, the pineal gland, and the membranes that cover the surface of the brain. Brian tumors that start in the brain are referred to as primary brain tumors. When cancer spreads to the brain from other parts of the body it is referred to as secondary brain tumors or metastatic brain tumors.

There are a plethora of brain tumors that exist. It is important to note, that not all brain tumors are cancerous. These noncancerous brain tumors can grow over time and press on the brain tissue.

Symptoms

There are a few signs and symptoms of a brain tumor depending on the size of the tumor and location. Symptoms can vary depending on how fast the tumor is growing. General signs and symptoms include:

• Headaches or pressure in the head that worse in the morning
• Severe headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Eye problems, blurred vision, seeing double, or losing sight on the sides of your vision.
• Losing feeling or movement in arm or leg.
• Speech problems
• Feeling very tired
• Memory problems
• Personality or behavior changes
• Dizziness or a sense that the world is spinning

Noncancerous brain tumor symptoms develop slowly. You might not notice these subtle symptoms at first, but they will progressively get worse over months or years. Cancerous brain tumors will have symptoms that get worse quickly.

Ways You Can Help

Do you want to make a difference in spreading awareness for brain tumors? Well, here’s how you can help!

• Spread the Word: Share information, facts, and stories with your community about brain tumors. You can share these stories by word of mouth or on social media platforms.
• Participate in Awareness Events: Join local walks, runs, and fundraisers dedicated to raising money, awareness, research, and support for brain tumors.
• Donate: This is the most common way, but still extremely helpful! Contribute to organizations that are focused on research, patient support, advocacy, and finding a potential cure.
• Wear a Grey Ribbon: Grey ribbons symbolize brain tumor awareness. Wear your grey ribbon in your community to show your support. Did you know the reason the color is grey is because that is the color of the brain cortex?
• Continue to Educate Yourself: Attend local seminars or workshops that share knowledge on brain tumors.