Brain Tumor Awareness Month

Caregiver Advocate | Shield HealthCare

05/01/12 4:23 PM PST

Each May, the brain tumor community steps up its efforts to raise awareness, educate people about the disease, raise funds and empower everyone affected by brain tumors. According to the National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS), there are over 600,000 people in the US living with a primary brain tumor diagnosis. More than 60,000 adults and children will be newly diagnosed this year.

Facts about brain tumors:

Because brain tumors are located at the control center for thought, emotion and movement, their effects on an individual’s physical and cognitive abilities can be devastating
The five-year survival rate after diagnosis with a primary malignant brain/central nervous system tumor is 35.10%
The five-year survival rate for glioblastoma, the most common and deadly brain tumor, is 4.46%
Brain tumors are the leading cause of death from solid tumors in children under the age of 20
Brain tumors are the third leading cause of death from cancer in young adults ages 20-39
Brain tumors may be either malignant or non-malignant (“benign”), but can be life-threatening in either case
There are few known risk factors for brain tumors and no strategies for early detection
Symptoms of brain tumors can be attributed to other conditions, leading to delays in diagnosis
Brain tumor treatment is complex and even when it is successful in treating the tumor, it can result in damage to the brain and devastating after-affects

Online support and resources:

A brain tumor diagnosis can be alarming and may cause feelings of uncertainty and fear. Connecting to others is an important and supportive way to find valuable information and discuss feelings and concerns.

The following resources provide assistance, tools and information to guide individuals and families through a brain tumor journey.