Brain Tumors

A brain tumor is a mass formed when cells in or around the brain grow in an abnormal, uncontrolled way. Tumors are often described as non-cancerous (benign), which tend to grow slowly, or cancerous (malignant), which can grow faster and spread. They are also graded by how quickly they are likely to grow. Because the skull is enclosed, even a benign tumor can cause problems by pressing on nearby tissue.

Brain tumors are much less common than many other conditions but can occur at any age, from children to older adults. Some types are more common in childhood, while others appear more often later in life. Tumors that spread to the brain from cancers elsewhere in the body are more frequent than tumors that start in the brain itself.

Symptoms depend on where the tumor is and how big it is. They may include new or worsening headaches, seizures, feeling sick, drowsiness, and problems with vision, speech, balance or memory. Some people notice changes in personality or weakness on one side of the body. These symptoms have many possible causes, but new or persistent ones should always be checked by a doctor.

In most cases the exact cause of a brain tumor is not known. Risk increases with age, and a small number of cases are linked to inherited genetic conditions or to previous radiotherapy to the head. Tumors that spread from other cancers are linked to those underlying cancers. Most people who develop a brain tumor have no clear, identifiable risk factor.

If a brain tumor is suspected, doctors usually start with a neurological examination to check functions such as vision, balance and reflexes. Imaging scans, most often MRI or CT, are used to look for a growth and show its size and location. In many cases a sample of tissue (a biopsy) is examined under a microscope to confirm the type and grade of tumor, which guides treatment.

Treatment is planned by a specialist team and depends on the tumor's type, grade and position. Options may include surgery to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible, radiotherapy and medicines such as chemotherapy or targeted treatments. Some slow-growing tumors are carefully monitored over time. Care also includes managing symptoms like seizures and supporting recovery and quality of life.

Because most brain tumors have no known cause, there is no proven way to prevent them. Living a generally healthy lifestyle supports overall well-being but is not known to stop brain tumors specifically. If you have an inherited condition that raises risk, your doctor may suggest regular monitoring. Seeking advice early for persistent symptoms allows any problem to be assessed promptly.