Introduction:
Every year, June 8 is recognized as World Brain Cancer Day. On this occasion, we aim to debunk some common myths about brain tumors by consulting with medical experts.
In India, the prevalence of central nervous system (CNS) tumors ranges from 5 to 10 per 100,000 people, with a rising trend. Out of these tumors, only the top 2% are malignant.
Myth 1: ALL Brain Tumors Are Cancerous:
Contrary to the misconception that all brain tumors are malignant, most brain tumors are benign. Dr. Jayesh Sardhara, Senior Specialist in Neuro and Spine Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Mumbai, explains, "Most brain tumors are benign. The most common brain tumor is meningioma, which is not malignant." Dr.
Abhijit G. Warade, Neuro Surgery Specialist at PD Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai, also emphasizes that not all brain tumors are dangerous, and patients can lead normal lives after benign brain tumor treatment.
Myth 2: Excessive Use of Cell Phones Can Cause Brain Tumors
Research conducted by the American Cancer Society has found no conclusive link between cell phone use for over 13 years and an increased risk of brain tumors.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also stated that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the claim that using phones can lead to significant health issues or brain cancer.
Dr. Sardhara asserts, "This is an absolute myth. Cell phone radiation does not cause brain cancer." According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the long-term effects of cell phone use on humans are not yet fully understood, and animal studies have not shown an increased risk of cancer due to radiofrequency field exposure.
Myth 3: Brain Tumors Are Not Inherited:
Dr. Midhun Murali explains that brain tumors can be hereditary, with approximately 20% of cases being passed down through genetics.
However, some brain tumors are idiopathic, with no clear genetic cause. Cancer Research UK identifies specific genetic conditions associated with an increased risk of brain cancer, including neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
Myth 4: Once Treated, Brain Tumors Can't Recur:
Contrary to the belief that treated brain tumors cannot return, Dr. Sardhara explains that brain tumors can recur even after treatment. Whether a tumor will recur depends on factors such as the grade of the tumor.
Higher-grade tumors (grade 3 or 4) have a higher chance of recurrence compared to lower-grade tumors (grade 1 or 2). The rate of recurrence varies between benign and malignant tumors.
The National Cancer Institute states that brain or spine tumors can return in another location within the central nervous system (CNS).
Myth 5: Brain Cancers Can't Affect Children:
The idea that brain cancers do not affect children is a misconception. Brain or central nervous system (CNS) cancers are the second most common malignancy seen in children.
These cancers can occur in children of all ages, including during pregnancy. Dr. Warade emphasizes that brain tumors can be diagnosed in children even before birth. Brain tumors are not age-restricted and can impact individuals across all age groups.
Conclusion:
Debunking these myths about brain tumors helps create a better understanding of this complex medical condition.
The insights from medical experts highlight the importance of dispelling misconceptions and relying on scientific evidence when discussing brain tumors.
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