Guide to health: Brain tumours
WHAT is a brain tumour? It is a growth of abnormal cells that have formed in the brain.
Types of brain tumour: Benign i.e. not cancerous, often slow growing, do not spread to distant sites. Malignant i.e. cancerous, fast growing and tends to damage areas of the brain. Types of Malignant Tumours: Primary- the cancerous growth arises from the structures of the brain. These tumours can further be classified according to the cells they would have arisen from. Secondary- the tumour is a result of spread of cancer from a distant site commonly from breast, lung, colon, kidney and a skin cancer called malignant melanoma.
Risk factors for Brain Tumours: Note that having a risk factor does not mean you will get brain cancer nor do those with brain cancer have known risk factors.
Exposure to radiation therapy to treat other cancers; Family history- most people with brain cancers do not have a family history but some brain tumours do run in families and are linked to other diseases or cancers. Weak immune system may predispose people to certain types of brain cancer. Exposure to certain chemicals may increase the risk. Brain tumours occur both in children and adults.
Symptoms of Brain Tumours
The brain is involved in many functions including movements, senses, thoughts, speech and memory so these maybe affected by brain tumours. Common symptoms of brain tumours include: Headaches, nausea, vomiting, balance problems, paralysis or weakness of a body part (s), visual and hearing problems, personality or behaviour changes, seizures (fits), drowsiness or coma.
When a brain tumour is confirmed on a scan a piece of the growth is taken for testing at the lab (biopsy) to determine the type of cancer. When this has been determined other tests such as scans, X-rays and blood tests will be taken to determine the extent of the disease and fitness for treatment. This process is necessary to decide on the treatment that is best for the type of cancer and the stage of the disease.
Treatment: This is best provided by a multidisciplinary team involving some or all the following: Oncologist, a doctor who treats cancer using medication (chemotherapy) or radiation therapy to kill cancer cells. Surgeons, a doctor who does an operation to remove the growth if it is operable. Palliative care team (doctor, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, spiritual counsellors, and others) to relieve pain and other symptoms as well as offer psychosocial support to the patient and his/ her family and caregiver(s). It is important for the health professionals mentioned above to discuss treatment options and the chances of curing or controlling the disease as well as possible side effects of the treatments in a language that is understood by the patient, family, and caregivers. This will allow them to make the decision about their treatment that best fits the patient’s needs and goals. Complementary or alternative medicines such herbs, special diets and vitamins may help the patient feel better but many have not been proven to work.
Caring for a Person with a Brain Tumour: Give support and encouragement by creating a space for the patient to share their feelings and fears. Understand the patient’s condition. Give medicines to manage symptoms and side effects as prescribed. Know the healthcare team of the patient and arrange for appointments. Help with activities of daily living when needed e.g. bathing, dressing, eating. Help with financial and legal issues such as bills and wills. Ask for help from family and friends when needed, take time off to rest. Explore community resources- e.g. community home based carers, community sisters, spiritual support. Seeks professional support when overwhelmed.
For Partnership in the 2022 Zimpapers Cancer Power Walk, Call Public Relations and Communications Manager , Pauline Matanda 0715 679 405 or email pauline. matanda@zimpapers.co.zw
The writer, By Dr Natsayi Mujuru, is the Island Hospice and Health care, Bulawayo Branch Coordinator