Brain tumours are often misunderstood, with myths causing unnecessary fear and delayed care. From believing all tumours are cancerous to thinking only older adults are affected, these misconceptions can be harmful. Understanding the real symptoms, how tumours vary by age and type, and what modern treatments offer can help you make informed decisions. Awareness is the first step toward early detection and better outcomes.
Each year, thousands of people around the world hear the words, “You have a brain tumour.” This news can be devastating—and it’s often made worse by the sea of misinformation surrounding brain tumours.
Many believe that brain tumours are always fatal or that they only occur in older adults. Some even fear that mobile phones are to blame. These myths can delay treatment and prevent people from seeking the help they need.
That’s why raising awareness is crucial. Accurate information empowers individuals to recognise early warning signs, consult Brain Tumor doctors promptly, and avoid unnecessary fear driven by misconceptions.
To support this effort, World Brain Tumour Day is observed every year on 8th June. The day is dedicated to raising awareness, supporting patients and families, and promoting early diagnosis through education.
In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about brain tumours—and uncover the facts you need to know.
Myth: All brain tumours are cancer.
Fact: Not all brain tumours are cancerous.
Brain tumours may either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Non-cancerous tumours are slow-growing and don't spread, but that doesn't imply they are harmless.
Malignant tumours, on the other hand, are aggressive and can spread within the brain or spine, potentially being deadly.
Therefore, early brain tumour treatment and diagnosis in either situation are essential. Even benign tumours can create significant issues if they press against significant areas in the brain.
Myth: Using a mobile phone increases your brain tumour risk.
Fact: There is no proven link between mobile phones and brain tumours.
Many studies have been done on this topic. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there's no strong evidence to prove that mobile phone use is a cause of brain tumours.
Phones emit non-ionising radiation, which doesn't damage DNA in the same way that ionising radiation (like X-rays) does.
Myth: Brain tumours affect only people over 60.
Fact: Brain tumours can happen at any age.
While some types of brain tumours are more common in older adults, others can appear in children, teens, and young adults too. For instance, medulloblastoma is a brain tumour most commonly found in children.
Awareness in all age groups is key to spotting brain tumour symptoms early.
Myth: You’ll know immediately if you have a brain tumour.
Fact: Symptoms can be mild, subtle, or develop slowly.
Not all brain tumours cause sudden or severe signs. Symptoms may include:
These signs are generally confused with another disease. That is why long-term signs always have to be examined by a doctor.
Myth: Brain tumours can only be treated surgically.
Fact: Treatment is varied and highly individualised.
Brain tumour treatment depends on various factors, including tumour type, grade, and place. Treatment can include:
Newer treatments such as proton beam therapy and AI-guided surgery are improving accuracy and results.
Myth: Brain tumours always lead to death.
Fact: Many patients go on to live long, healthy lives after treatment.
Survival is determined by the type of tumour and detection time. Benign tumours have a very high survival rate, especially if treated early.
Even some malignant tumours, like low-grade gliomas (grade 1 and grade 2 tumours according to WHO classification), have good long-term outcomes if treated well.
Furthermore, newer treatments now enable many to survive and cope with aggressive tumours like glioblastoma (GBM).
Myth: Brain tumours are contagious.
Fact: They cannot be transferred from one person to another.
The aetiology of brain tumours is multifactorial and typically involves genetic mutation, environmental trauma, or other as yet undiscovered factors. However, in very rare cases, viruses linked to cancer (like Epstein-Barr virus in lymphoma) may play a role, but this doesn’t mean the brain tumour itself is infectious.
Myth: Brain tumour symptoms are the same in every person.
Fact: Symptoms vary immensely.
No two patients are exactly the same. The brain controls different body functions. Depending on where the tumour is:
Myth: One can avoid brain tumours by living a healthy life.
Fact: There is no certain method of prevention.
Although changes in lifestyle like avoiding toxins, eating a good diet, and not being exposed to radiation will benefit overall brain function, they don’t guarantee you won’t develop a brain tumour.
However, avoiding radiation exposure, reducing stress, and keeping up with regular check-ups may reduce risk factors. Genes and environment play a big role too.
Myth: Brain tumour surgery & treatment haven’t changed much.
Fact: New technologies are changing outcomes every day.
Medical science is advancing at a rapid rate. Treatments such as:
All these are now providing improved accuracy, fewer side effects, and higher survival. Patients now have more accurate and powerful options than before.
Brain tumours are complicated, but knowledge is strength. Never hesitate due to fear or superstition. If you or the person you know are experiencing symptoms associated with the brain, do not wait to see the doctor.
On this World Brain Tumour Day, let's raise awareness. Let's exchange myths for facts and fear for hope.
Because when your brain health is on the line, seconds matter.
For most people, it's recognising brain tumour warning signs like persistent headaches, vision changes, or seizures that prompts them to seek medical advice and get a brain scan.
Common brain tumour symptoms include headaches, nausea, blurred vision, memory loss, seizures, and difficulty with balance or speech.
Some brain tumours are curable, especially if they’re benign and detected early, but malignant types may need long-term treatment.
A brain tumor occurs when abnormal cells grow in or around the brain, often due to genetic changes or unknown causes.
Yes, certain brain tumor types can be cured with surgery, radiation, or targeted therapies, especially if caught early.
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent it, but avoiding radiation exposure, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and regular check-ups may help lower risk.
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