Latest news with #WorldBrainTumourDay
Hindustan Times
16-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Having persistent headaches? Neurologist shares 10 early warning signs of brain tumours; know these prevention tips
While most brain tumours are benign, some can be cancerous and potentially life-threatening. They result from the abnormal growth of cells in the brain, and recognising the early warning signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. Also read | Brain tumours: Causes, treatment, prognosis, 8 new alternatives for patients In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vinit Banga, director of neurology, Fortis Hospital, Faridabad said, 'Brain tumors, either benign or cancerous, can be highly dangerous to your health if not found early. They can quietly develop, with their symptoms manifesting in much milder forms. As the growth of the tumor increases, it can press on brain tissue, disrupt neurological functions, and affect the body systems in subtle or unusual ways.' 1. Persistent headaches: Particularly those that are worse on awakening or with activity. 2. Enigmatic nausea or vomiting: Particularly when accompanied by headache. 3. Vision problems: Blurred vision, dizziness, or peripheral vision loss. 4. Balance and coordination problems: Trouble walking or more than two episodes of stumbling in a row. 5. Mood or behaviour changes: Sudden change in mood, confusion, or memory loss. 6. Seizures: Seizure onset in adults is a red flag. 7. Speech problems: Trouble speaking clearly or trouble understanding words. Also read | World Brain Tumour Day 2024: 12 surprising signs of brain tumour that people usually ignore 8. Hearing loss: Particularly if it happens in only one ear. 9. Numbness or weakness: Especially in one side of the body. 10. Fatigue: Ongoing tiredness even with activity or rest. With the right lifestyle and dietary patterns, brain tumours can be avoided. Dr Vinit Banga shared these prevention tips to follow: Limit exposure to ionising radiation: Avoid unnecessary CT scans and X-rays, especially in children. Use protective shielding when exposure is medically necessary. Be cautious around radiation-emitting environments (e.g., industrial sites). Reduce long-term mobile phone use: Use hands-free devices or speakerphone to limit radiation exposure to the head. Avoid sleeping with your phone next to your head. Use landlines when possible, for long conversations. Maintain a healthy diet: Eat antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables (berries, leafy greens, carrots). Avoid processed meats, excess red meat, and trans fats, which may increase inflammation and cancer risk. Include Omega-3 fatty acids, nuts, and whole grains to support brain health. Stay physically active: Regular exercise supports immune function and reduces inflammation, which may help lower cancer risk. Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals: Limit prolonged exposure to pesticides, industrial solvents, heavy metals, and formaldehyde, especially in occupational settings. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) if you work in high-risk environments. Don't smoke; limit alcohol: Smoking is linked to various cancers and may contribute to tumour growth in the brain. Excessive alcohol can affect brain function and increase cancer risk indirectly. Also read | Brain tumour in children: Doctor explains early warning signs, prevention tips and all that parents need to know Prioritise quality sleep: Disrupted sleep cycles and chronic sleep deprivation may affect brain function and long-term neurological health. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
16-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Is blurred vision a sign of brain tumour? Surgeon shares 8 early warning signs to be aware of
Brain tumours occur when there is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain. While some tumours can be cancerous, the majority are benign and non-cancerous in nature. Also read | Brain cancer: Recognising tumour symptoms, risk factors and seeking treatment In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Rohit Bansil, associate director, neuro surgery and neuro spine, BLK - MAX Super Speciality Hospital said, 'In India, approximately 40000 cases of brain tumours are reported every year, accounting for nearly 2 % of the total cancers detected in India. The early detection of brain tumours and early intervention is very vital for the treatment outcome and overall survival.' Emphasising on the importance of spotting the early signs, Dr Rohit Bansil shared the early symptoms of brain tumours. In most cases, headache is the most common symptom. Typically, the headache is early in the morning and is usually associated with vomiting. Interestingly, the headache gets relieved soon after the vomiting. This is a very classical symptom of raised intracranial pressure due to a brain tumour. The next common symptom is seizures or epilepsy, which could be due to an underlying brain tumour, particularly in young people. Another common symptom is the progressive weakness or paralysis of one side of the body. Also read | Brain tumours: Causes, treatment, prognosis, 8 new alternatives for patients Some patients may report behaviour or personality changes, and few often present with memory loss or cognitive decline. The tumours located on the back side of the head, usually present with gait ataxia or imbalance while walking. Patients usually have difficulty in coordination and execution of routine activities. Some patients may show symptoms of progressive hearing loss and ringing sensation in one ear. Tumours located in brainstem area present with double vision, facial paralysis, changes and hoarseness of voice and difficulty in swallowing, more for liquids than solids. Tumours located in the pituitary region often presents with blurring of vision, which can progress to vision loss as these tumours directly impinge upon the nerve of the vision. Also read | World Brain Tumour Day 2024: 12 surprising signs of brain tumour that people usually ignore 'Early identification and early intervention make the difference and guides the outcomes of treatment,' added Dr Rohit Bansil. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Business Recorder
16-06-2025
- Health
- Business Recorder
Number of people living with brain tumours increasing: experts
LAHORE: 'World Brain Tumour Day' was marked here Sunday with a renewed pledge to continue awareness drives against the disease so as the goal of healthy society could be achieved. Speakers at an awareness session stated that brain tumours can be treated with timely diagnosis. They said simple lifestyle, regular exercise, adequate sleep and avoidance of mental stress are the best preventive measures to prevent diseases like brain tumours. Due to lack of awareness, the number of brain tumour patients is increasing in Pakistan. Executive Director PINS and renowned neurosurgeon Prof Asif Bashir, while addressing on the occasion urged young doctors to focus on modern research in the field of neurosurgery. He added that a highly skilled and experienced medical team is working at PINS, and modern equipment such as neuron-avigation system and high magnification exoscop, successful operations of complex brain tumours are possible at PINS. He appealed to the Punjab government to provide Gamma Knife Technology (GKT) to further benefit the patients. He said, 'This technology (GKT)is a non-surgical treatment method that can prove to be very useful for brain tumour patients. If this facility is provided, it will be a revolutionary step for the patients.' He highlighted, 'According to the World Health Organization, brain tumour is a disease seen in all societies today, whose total number of patients is estimated at 15 million, globally, the number of women suffering from this disease is more than men. Early diagnosis of brain tumour is very important, once diagnosed, there should be no delay in starting immediate treatment of the patient.' He emphasized, 'The diagnosis of brain tumour in new patients is made through MRI and CT scan. There can be many reasons for the formation of tumours in the human brain, but it is a given that these reasons also include mental stress.' He said that there are 120 types of this disease, but two types, benign and malignant, spread rapidly and are relatively more dangerous. Brain tumours can attack at any age, but are usually found in people over 35 years of age. He said, 'The symptoms of the disease include persistent headaches, nausea, changes in voice, vision, hearing, tingling in the arm or leg, and muscle twitching. One-third of brain tumour patients die after fighting the disease for five years.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
10-06-2025
- Health
- Business Recorder
Eid-ul-Azha: CM appreciates district admin, ‘Suthra' Punjab workers
LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her message on the social media platform X, lauded that the district administration especially workers of 'Suthra' Punjab have vigorously performed their duties with dedication and integrity during Eid-ul-Azha across Punjab. She highlighted, 'Animal waste was collected, streets, adjacent areas, 'mohallas' were cleaned and roads were washed with phenyl and rose water in Punjab.' The Chief Minister commended the district administration and 'Suthra' Punjab workers for carrying out historic cleanliness operation on the eve of Eid-ul-Azha. Moreover, the CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif in her message on the eve of 'World Brain Tumour Day' said that brain tumour is a silent yet devastating disease. She said, 'It is far more than a physical affliction; it is a profound challenge for both the patient and the medical consultant. Brain tumour not only becomes a difficult trial for the patients but for their families as well. Timely diagnosis and treatment of brain tumour is the key to a safer and healthier life.' She highlighted, 'Raising public awareness about such silent diseases is the real strength and success. Nawaz Sharif Cancer Hospital will serve as a beacon of hope for cancer and tumour patients. I pay tribute to all those who are making sincere strives in the treatment of brain tumours.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Hindustan Times
09-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Can mobile phone use cause brain tumour? Doctor debunks 5 myths and shares facts
Brain tumours can be frightening, but addressing them effectively starts with separating facts from myths. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Manish Vaish, principal director, neuro and spine surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, said, 'Brain tumours are often surrounded by fear, confusion, and misinformation. Early diagnosis, the right treatment, and a supportive environment can significantly improve outcomes.' Also read | How to detect brain tumours in children early: Watch out for these warning signs The doctor further debunks myths about brain tumours: Fact: Not every brain tumour is malignant. In fact, many brain tumours are benign (non-cancerous), meaning they do not spread to other parts of the body. However, even benign tumours can cause serious issues due to their location in the brain and the pressure they may exert on surrounding tissues. That's why timely diagnosis and monitoring are important, regardless of the tumour type. Fact: While headaches can be a symptom, not all individuals with a brain tumour will experience them. Other early signs might include seizures, personality changes, memory problems, vision disturbances, or speech difficulties. Often, these symptoms are subtle and may be mistaken for stress, ageing, or other common conditions. Persistent or unusual symptoms should not be ignored. Also read | Brain tumours: Causes, treatment, prognosis, 8 new alternatives for patients Fact: There is no conclusive scientific evidence that everyday use of mobile phones or exposure to microwave ovens causes brain tumours. Numerous international studies have dismissed a clear link. That said, more long-term research is still ongoing to further understand potential environmental factors. Fact: Modern medical advancements have revolutionised the way brain tumours are diagnosed and treated. In many cases, minimally invasive procedures, stereotactic radiosurgery (like Gamma Knife), or targeted therapies are now available. Treatments are individualised based on the tumour's type, size, and location, as well as the patient's overall health. Fact: This is perhaps the most dangerous myth. Thanks to advances in neurosurgery, neuro-navigation, radiotherapy, and personalised medicine, many patients with brain tumours go on to live full and meaningful lives. Outcomes depend on early detection, tumour type, and access to specialised care. Hope, combined with science, goes a long way in improving quality of life. Also read | World Brain Tumour Day 2024: 12 surprising signs of brain tumour that people usually ignore Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
