The CNI Center for Brain & Spinal Tumors includes a patient resource center where patients and their families can access information and support.
Each year, over 100,000 people in the US are diagnosed with a primary or metastatic brain tumor.
Brain tumors are the second-leading cause of cancer death for children under age 19 and a significant cause of cancer death for people ages 20-39. The greatest increase in brain tumors has been among people 75 and older.
Symptoms of brain tumors include headache, nausea and vomiting; new onset of seizures; loss of movement, coordination or sensation; visual disturbance; hearing loss; speech difficulty; changes in behavior or personality, and difficulty with memory.
Metastatic brain tumors (cancer that spreads from other parts of the body to the brain) occur at some point in 20-40% of the general cancer population.
In the US, 11-12 people per 100,000 develop primary brain tumors.
There are many different types of brain tumors, making effective treatment very complicated.
Brain tumors are located at the control center for thought, emotion and movement, and can have a devastating effect on an individual's cognitive abilities.
Currently, cure rates are low for malignant brain tumors. Treatment may put tumors into remission, but tumors can still recur even years later.
Treatments include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, used individually or in combination. Clinical trials and research are unde rway to develop new treatments for brain tumors, including gene therapy and immunotherapy.
Only 37% of males and 52% of females survive five years following diagnosis of a primary low-grade (benign) or malignant brain tumor.
A low-grade brain tumor generally has a slower rate of growth and may take years to become large enough to affect functional areas of the brain. Once treated, the tumor may take years or even decades to grow back. A malignant tumor generally is more aggressive and requires aggressive treatment. They grow much more quickly and tend to invade normal tissue.
The medical information presented on this website is meant for general educational purpose only. Individuals should consult their physician regarding specific medical concerns or treatment.
