Brain Tumours No Longer Beyond Hope

Dr Jeevesh Malik

The words “brain tumour” often evoke fear and uncertainty. However, remarkable advances in medical science over the last two decades have transformed the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumours. Today, many patients can expect better outcomes, improved quality of life, and in some cases, a complete cure.

Brain tumours occur when abnormal cells grow within the brain or its coverings. They may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Although less common than cancers of the breast, lung, or colon, brain tumours remain an important health concern. Worldwide, approximately 10–15 people per 100,000 population are diagnosed each year. In India, thousands of new cases are detected annually, with wider access to MRI scans helping achieve earlier diagnosis.

The exact cause of most brain tumours remains unknown. In the majority of patients, no specific risk factor can be identified. A small proportion may be associated with inherited genetic conditions or previous exposure to high-dose radiation. I

The symptoms of a brain tumour depend on its size, location, and growth rate. Persistent or worsening headaches, especially when associated with early morning vomiting, should not be ignored. Other warning signs include seizures, weakness of an arm or leg, difficulty speaking, imbalance while walking, double vision, memory problems, personality changes, or unexplained drowsiness. In children, increasing head size, developmental delay, or recurrent vomiting may be important clues.

While most headaches are not caused by brain tumours, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention. These include a first-time seizure, persistent weakness, sudden changes in vision or speech, unexplained balance problems, or headaches that continue to worsen despite treatment.

Treatment depends on the tumour type, location, and overall health of the patient. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment for many brain tumours. Modern neurosurgical techniques, including operating microscopes and image-guided surgery, allow safer and more precise tumour removal while preserving normal brain function. At Tata Main Hospital, operating microscope-assisted brain tumour surgery is routinely performed for both adult and paediatric patients.

Radiation therapy and chemotherapy also play important roles. One of the major advances is Gamma Knife radiosurgery, which uses highly focused radiation to treat selected tumours without an incision. Molecular testing of tumours is increasingly helping doctors personalise treatment.

The outlook for patients has improved significantly. Many benign tumours can be cured, while patients with malignant tumours are benefiting from advances in surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and multidisciplinary care. Researchers are also exploring gene therapy, immunotherapy, and tumour vaccines, offering hope for the future.

The key message is simple: persistent neurological symptoms should never be ignored. With early diagnosis, expert care, and rapidly advancing treatment options, there is more hope today than ever before for patients with brain tumours.

(Author is Head Consultant and HOD Indoor Services, Tata Main Hospital.)