World Brain Tumour Day is marked yearly on June 8th around the world with the goal of raising public awareness about brain tumours and the need of early detection and treatment, as well as providing support to afflicted individuals.
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain that produces pressure inside the skull. It can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign).
Symptoms
Symptoms of brain tumors vary by location, but may include the following:
- Headaches that may be more severe in the morning or awaken the patient at night.
- Difficulty thinking, speaking or articulating.
- Personality changes.
- Weakness or paralysis in one part or one side of the body.
- Loss of balance or dizziness.
- Vision changes.
- Hearing changes.
- Nausea or vomiting, swallowing difficulties
Theme
The theme for World Brain Tumor Day 2024 is ‘Brain Health and Prevention‘.
- Taking care of your brain health and removing potential risk factors can significantly reduce your likelihood of developing the disease.
- Awareness can help us reduce the incidence of brain tumors by taking into account family history, minimizing radiation exposure, and avoiding environmental dangers such as smoking.
History
- The history of World Brain Tumor Day dates back 24 years, when it was first observed in 2000 by the Leipzig-based NPO Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe e.V., or German Brain Tumor Association.
- Since then, the international day has been dedicated to brain tumour patients all around the world, as well as to raising awareness about this condition.
Significance
- Early detection of a brain tumour is critical in preventing neurological symptoms and impairments. Being aware of the early warning signals can lead to proper treatment and a rapid recovery.
- Cancerous tumours, in particular, must be treated as soon as possible before they become lethal.
- World Brain Tumor Day is the perfect time to educate people about the fatal disease, address issues associated with the disease, promote research, and uncover newer and more technologically advanced treatment options.