Latest news with #braincancer
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Charity set up in memory of Brighton teenager features on BBC Breakfast
A charity set up in memory of a Brighton teenager has been featured on BBC Breakfast. Founded in memory of Charlotte Eades, Charlotte's BAG was featured on BBC Breakfast in a seven-minute segment, highlighting the legacy of the young woman. At 16, Charlotte was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme, a rare and fast-growing brain cancer. She documented her journey with honest and heartfelt YouTube videos, reaching nearly 25 million viewers worldwide. By sharing her story, she aimed to help others live life to the fullest, despite the uncertain future a cancer diagnosis brings. Her mother, Alex Eades, founded Charlotte's BAG, which has raised more than £325,000 to support research at King's College Hospital. The research focuses on quick whole genome sequencing of brain tumours to improve diagnosis and treatment. The charity is entirely self-funded, meaning all public donations go directly to research. The charity operates with no salaries, advertising, or merchandise, run solely by a family inspired by Charlotte's story. Even costs such as PayPal fees and the PO Box are paid privately, ensuring every penny donated has an impact. Charlotte's BAG is striving to change the fact that brain tumour research receives only one per cent of the annual cancer research funding, and treatments have seen little progress since the 1990s. Thanks to Charlotte's BAG's contributions, research is now carrying out detailed molecular analysis within 24 hours of surgery. Mr Ranj Bhangoo, a consultant neurosurgeon said in the BBC interview: "By getting as much genetic and molecular information as possible, we can make a decision with the patient about how their tumour is going to behave. "We are routinely now able to offer this analysis to patients." The charity continues to honour Charlotte's spirit of courage, humour, and generosity, fuelling breakthroughs in care and giving hope to young people facing brain cancer.
Health Line
3 days ago
- Health
- Health Line
Anaplastic Astrocytoma
This rare, aggressive type of cancerous brain tumor can cause headaches, seizures, and changes in behavior or cognitive (thinking) function. Treatment involves surgery combined with radiation and chemotherapy. Astrocytomas are a type of brain tumor. They develop in star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes, which form part of the tissue that protects the nerve cells in your brain and spinal cord. Astrocytomas are classified by their grade — grade 1 and 2 astrocytomas grow slowly, while grade 3 and 4 astrocytomas grow faster and more aggressively. An anaplastic astrocytoma is a grade 3 astrocytoma. While rare, this type of cancerous tumor can be very serious without treatment. Keep reading to learn more about anaplastic astrocytomas, including their symptoms and the survival rates of people who have them. What are the symptoms? The symptoms of an anaplastic astrocytoma can vary based on exactly where the tumor is, but generally include: headaches lethargy or drowsiness nausea or vomiting behavioral changes memory loss seizures vision problems coordination and balance problems What causes it? Researchers aren't sure what causes anaplastic astrocytomas. However, they may be associated with: genetic abnormalities immune system abnormalities environmental factors, such as exposure to UV rays and certain chemicals lifestyle factors, such as diet or stress People with certain genetic disorders, such as neurofibromatosis type I (NF1), Li-Fraumeni syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis, have a higher risk of developing anaplastic astrocytoma. If you've had radiation therapy on your brain, you may also be at a higher risk. How is it diagnosed? Anaplastic astrocytomas are rare, so your doctor will start by discussing your medical history and performing a physical exam to identify any other possible causes of your symptoms. They may also use a neurological exam to see how your nervous system is working. This usually involves testing your balance, coordination, and reflexes. You may be asked to answer some basic questions so they can evaluate your speech and mental clarity. If your doctor thinks you may have a tumor, they'll likely use imaging such as an MRI scan or CT scan to examine a picture of your brain. If you do have an anaplastic astrocytoma, these images will also show its size and exact location. In some cases, doctors use a PET scan or SPECT scan. These metabolic scans look at cellular activity in the brain rather than the detailed anatomy seen on an MRI. These tests can sometimes be helpful for assessing tumor cells. A biopsy may also be part of the diagnostic process and can involve removing as much of the tumor as possible. How is it treated? There are several options for treating an anaplastic astrocytoma, depending on the size, location, and grade of the tumor. Surgery Surgery is usually the first step in treating an anaplastic astrocytoma. In some cases, your doctor may be able to remove all or as much of the tumor as possible. However, anaplastic astrocytomas may grow in areas of the brain that are not safe or accessible for surgery, so your doctor may only be able to safely remove part of the tumor. Tumor cells that remain because they were not identified or were surgically inaccessible can grow quickly after surgery. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy If your tumor can't be removed with surgery or was only partially removed, you may need follow-up treatment. Radiation therapy destroys cells, especially rapidly dividing cancer cells. This will help shrink the tumor or destroy some or all of the cells that weren't removed during surgery. Anticancer drugs are referred to as chemotherapy and may be used with or after radiation therapy to continue treatment. Some people may also be treated with: epilepsy medication hydrocephalus treatment steroids physical therapy Survival rate and life expectancy According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year relative survival rate for people with an anaplastic astrocytoma is as follows: 58% for those ages 22 to 44 29% for those ages 45 to 54 15% for those ages 55 to 64 The relative survival rate suggests how long someone with a condition may live after their diagnosis compared to those without the condition of the same race, sex, and age over a specific time. This is different from the overall survival rate, which is a percentage of people still alive for a specific time after diagnosis of a condition. It's most important to remember that these figures are estimates, and everyone is different. You can talk with your doctor about your specific condition. Several factors can affect your survival rate, including: the size, location, and grade of your tumor whether the tumor was completely or partially removed with surgery whether the tumor is new or recurring your overall health Your doctor can give you a better idea of your outlook based on these factors. The takeaway Anaplastic astrocytoma is a rare, aggressive type of cancerous brain tumor. Symptoms can vary but often include headache, seizures, and changes in behavior or cognitive function.
BBC News
3 days ago
- Health
- BBC News
Archie Goodburn: The Commonwealth Games swimmer who might not see 40
A year ago, a poolside phone call changed Archie Goodburn's Scottish 50m breaststroke record holder was dreaming of the Paris Olympics but his training had been hindered by some unusual factors. Seizures. Numbness on his left side. A feeling of had undergone tests and his scan results were due. When he emerged from his latest session in Edinburgh's Commonwealth pool, his phone showed a missed call from an unknown number. He called back. The news that followed was devastating."It was a pretty unlikely time to get a phone call," Goodburn says, speaking this month at the family home in the capital."I had actually spoke to my mum first to ask if she had heard anything. She said the doctors had been in touch but she couldn't get anything out of them."It's a moment I'll never forget, when I sat down at the edge of the pool - the pool where I've trained my whole life - to find out there's a brain tumour."Goodburn had brain cancer. He was 22 years old. It's the biggest cancer killer of people under the age of 40. Further investigation, including biopsy surgery, revealed three 'low grade' tumours. Inoperable and unable to be removed given how they'd spread through his brain."It was utter shock," he says. "Going from a healthy, young person to suddenly being told you have this ticking time-bomb in your brain that could, from one day to the next, become significantly worse and that there's nothing we can do to stop it." 'I'm lucky... I've got time to shout about this disease' It's particularly poignant when you consider this is an athlete in peak physical condition suddenly having to come to terms with their own mortality. "There are some potential advancements on the horizon and it's just whether or not these will come soon enough to help people like me who are facing the hard reality that they may not see their 40s."Imran Liaquat, Goodburn's neurosurgeon, says the prognosis can vary from three years to 20. Some live longer. Many don't. Accurate predictions are impossible and there is no cancer is - according to the Astro Brain Fund charity - the most fatal of all in terms of years lost, but investigations into it represent just 1% of the national spend on cancer research since record began. That, to Goodburn, is unacceptable. Undaunted by the battles to come, the young Scot is driven is continuing to train for this summer's World University Games and is looking forward to the Commonwealths in Glasgow next summer, but is also determined to help raise awareness of brain cancer and its impact on young painfully aware that many others have significantly less time than him."I'm in the fortunate position where I haven't been diagnosed with a glioblastoma," he explains. "I don't have 12 to 16 months. I may have considerably longer. "Often people don't get anywhere near as long when they're diagnosed with brain cancer. They're not going to want to spend their time raising awareness. They're going to want to live each day and making the most of every hour they have. "I realise I'm in a position with my sport and with my diagnosis that I have time to shout about this horrible disease that takes so many lives." As Goodburn offers an insight into what he, and many others, must face on a daily basis, a tear rolls down each cheek."I see the future in different ways on different days," he explains. "There are days when I wake up feeling positive and hoping things are going to be out there that can help. Other days, my eyes open and I remember I have brain cancer. There is an end-point to my life and it's much earlier than it should be."While he campaigns for more funding and better awareness, this extraordinary young man is drawing on the support of family and friends as he pursues his career as elite swimmer. He has a national title to defend this weekend and, despite everything, he'll be the strong favourite to retain the Scottish 50m breaststroke crown - live on the BBC Sport website, app & iPlayer - given he claimed silver at the British Championships in April. It's difficult for Goodburn to plan too far in advance, though, especially as he may now have to consider more aggressive forms of treatment such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, options he's managed to postpone thus far. "I want to keep going as long as I can and be in Glasgow for the next Commonwealth Games," he says. "I can live a pretty normal life at the moment but that's not to say that's something that's going to last and it won't be something that lasts."Watching Goodburn train at The Pleasance, alongside sister and fellow Commonwealth hopeful Katie, is long-time coach Mat can't quite fathom how his protege is not only still training at a high level, but getting results too. Within a month of his first surgery, he won that Scottish title. And at the end of last year, he equalled his PB at the world short Goodburn isn't resting there. While he tackles head on all the difficult challenges life has landed him with, he's also allowing himself to dream."I'm dreaming of bettering myself," he says. "A diagnosis like this takes away the belief in yourself that you can be better than you were previously. Cancer is something that we look at as a downhill, slippery slope and in some ways it is. "But I dream of being better than the last time I tried to do something. That lights a wee fire in me when a lot of other things put the fire out. "Doing a personal best post-diagnosis is a huge dream of mine. Going on to represent Scotland at the Commonwealth Games would be massive. Fingers crossed I can look towards the next Olympics. "That depends on a lot of factors outside my control. I'm just going to keep going at this as long as I can and keep being Archie."If you have been affected by any of these issues, find support via the BBC Action Line
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Growing Shifts Toward Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy Over Traditional Methods
The global brain cancer treatment market is rapidly evolving, driven by the increasing incidence of brain cancer and advancements in medical technology focusing on personalized medicine. With immunotherapies and genetically tailored treatments gaining traction, the market is shifting from traditional methods to more targeted solutions. The discovery of genetic markers facilitates precision medicine strategies, marking significant milestones with new biologics and therapies. North America leads, supported by its robust healthcare infrastructure. However, the market faces challenges such as high therapy costs. Key players like Merck & Co., Novartis, and Genentech dominate the competitive landscape. Dublin, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Brain Cancer Market - A Global and Regional Analysis: Analysis and Forecast, 2025-2035" report has been added to offering. The market for brain cancer treatments is transitioning from traditional methods (surgery, chemotherapy) to more targeted therapies and immunotherapy approaches. This shift is fuelled by the discovery of genetic markers and biomarkers associated with brain tumours, allowing for the development of precision medicine strategies. The approval of new biologics and immunotherapies represents a significant milestone in the treatment landscape for brain factors driving this market include the increasing incidence of brain cancer, advancements in medical technology, and the growing focus on personalized medicine. Brain cancer, one of the most challenging types of cancer to treat, requires innovative solutions due to its complex cancer involves abnormal cell growth in the brain that disrupts normal brain function. Treatments are becoming more sophisticated, targeting the tumour directly while preserving healthy brain tissue. Immunotherapies and personalized treatments tailored to the patient's genetic makeup are gaining traction in this America holds a dominant position in the global brain cancer market, driven by its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high diagnosis rates, and strong presence of key pharmaceutical companies. How Can This Report Add Value to an Organization?Product/Innovation Strategy: This report provides valuable insights for pharmaceutical companies looking to innovate in brain cancer treatments, focusing on targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and precision medicine. It helps identify emerging trends in brain cancer treatment and potential gaps in the Strategy: For pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers, understanding current market dynamics, emerging trends, and key competitors is essential. This report equips stakeholders with the tools to assess market opportunities and stay competitive in the global brain cancer Market Players and Competition SynopsisThe companies profiled in this report are selected based on expert insights, evaluating company coverage, product portfolio, and market penetration. Leading players in the global brain cancer market include pharmaceutical companies and service providers who hold substantial shares of the - Drivers and Limitations The global brain cancer market is driven by several key factors: Increasing incidence of brain cancer Advancements in medical technology The increasing focus on precision medicine Limitations: High cost of therapies Some of the prominent names established in this market are: Merck & Co., Inc. Novartis AG Genentech Orbus Therapeutics VBL Therapeutics DNAtrix Key Topics Covered: 1. Global Brain Cancer Market: Industry Outlook1.1 Market Overview and Ecosystem1.2 Epidemiological Analysis of Brain Cancer1.2.1 By Region1.3 Market Trends1.4 Clinical Trials1.4.1 By Phase1.5 Regulatory Landscape Analysis1.5.1 Legal Requirement and Framework in U.S.1.5.2 Legal Requirement and Framework in E.U.1.5.3 Legal Requirement and Framework in Asia-Pacific1.5.4 Legal Requirement and Framework in Rest-of-the-World1.6 Market Dynamics1.6.1 Impact Analysis1.6.2 Market Drivers1.6.3 Market Restraints1.6.4 Market Opportunities2. Global Brain Cancer Market, by Region, $Million, 2023-20352.1 North America2.1.1 Key Findings2.1.2 Market Dynamics2.1.3 Market Sizing and Forecast2.1.3.1 North America Brain Cancer Market (by Country)2.1.3.1.1 U.S.2.1.3.1.2 Canada2.2 Europe2.2.1 Key Findings2.2.2 Market Dynamics2.2.3 Market Sizing and Forecast2.2.3.1 Europe Brain Cancer Market (by Country)2.2.3.1.1 Germany2.2.3.1.2 France2.2.3.1.3 Italy2.2.3.1.4 U.K.2.2.3.1.5 Rest-of-Europe2.3 Asia-Pacific2.3.1 Key Findings2.3.2 Market Dynamics2.3.3 Market Sizing and Forecast2.3.3.1 Asia-Pacific Brain Cancer Market (by Country)2.3.3.1.1 China2.3.3.1.2 Japan2.3.3.1.3 India2.3.3.1.4 Rest-of-Asia-Pacific2.4 Rest-of-the-World2.4.1 Key Findings2.4.2 Market Dynamics2.4.3 Market Sizing and Forecast3. Global Brain Cancer Market - Competitive Benchmarking and Company Profiles3.1 Competitive Landscape3.1.1 Key Strategies and Developments by Company3.1.1.1 Funding Activities3.1.1.2 Mergers and Acquisitions3.1.1.3 Regulatory Approvals3.1.1.4 Partnerships, Collaborations and Business Expansions3.1.2 Key Developments Analysis3.2 Company Profiles3.2.1 Company Overview3.2.2 Product Portfolio3.2.3 Target Customers/End Users3.2.4 Key Personnel3.2.5 Analyst View4. Research MethodologyFor more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
Daily Mail
20-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE I was given six months to live after my brain tumor was found...it's a 'miracle' I'm alive a decade later
Los Angeles-based filmmaker Grace Wethor was 13 when she learned of the massive tumor pressing on her brain. She was given six months to live. But a decade later she is living a full and vibrant life - defying the odds in what doctors call a 'miracle' case. In 2015, she began experiencing headaches and seizures, prompting her to go to the hospital. Doctors found a tumor in her brainstem, called a glioma, a typically fatal cancer with minimal treatment options that are often unsuccessful. Doctors said she had about six months to live until the cancer, which has a survival rate of about eight percent, killed her. Wethor said: 'Because my tumor is so difficult to treat, I was able to leave the hospital and spend my "last six months" doing what I love. 'During those first six months, when I thought they might be my last, I made it a mission to do something creative every single day.' She painted, taught herself how to play guitar, and made fashion a form of self-expression. She visited museums with her mother, which she said 'was crucial to keeping my mind off my diagnosis and current health circumstances.' While she never received treatment, her symptoms – headaches, fatigue, and seizures – became manageable with a healthy balance of mindfulness and physical health. 'It's not always perfect, but I've found ways to work with my body rather than against it,' she said. 'Most days, I'm able to live a full and relatively normal life…I don't assume I have time.' Now, an advocate for cancer research, Wethor undergoes MRI scans, fearing all the time that the cancer has grown. But she hasn't let that fear take over her life. A glioma of the brain stem is a tumor that develops in the area connecting the brain to the spinal cord and can come in different varieties based on the specific type of glial cell. The brainstem is crucial in controlling vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, swallowing, and movement. Damage to it can lead to a wide range of devastating effects that Wethor fears are lurking just around the corner, including difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, and cognitive decline. Brainstem gliomas are rare and more common in children than adults. Every year, there are roughly 300 cases in adults and 500 cases in children. It is the same cancer President Joe Biden's son Beau had. He was diagnosed in 2013 and died two years later. 'My doctors can't explain why I have survived,' she said. 'I still have my tumor, but miraculously, it has not grown.' There is no treatment for this form of cancer, leaving her wondering when her regular MRI scan will show that the tumor has grown and pressure on her brain has worsened. Doctors do not know what prompted the tumor to develop, how it might respond to treatment, what the best available treatments are, or whether it will come back if a patient reaches remission. Wethor's expectation-exceeding survival is nothing short of miraculous, given the tiny chance of survival given to her as a teen. She said: 'Because of the complexity of the brain stem, doctors aren't able to biopsy or do surgery on these tumors. 'This means that as soon as these tumors start growing, there isn't much that can be done to help the patient - especially because chemotherapy and radiation also have a slim chance of working.' Radiation's effect is often short-lived, chemotherapy often fails and there are no targeted therapies. When symptoms appear, such as double vision, slurred speech, and imbalance, the cancer has spread beyond help. 'The hope is that one day a trial or new treatment will emerge that can help tumors in this area of the brain,' she said. 'There have been some advancements but we still have a long way to go.' From the outside, she said, nobody would know she has a brain tumor. And while she still gets headaches and other symptoms, she has been able to find creative outlets. The cancer could worsen at any moment, but Wethor doesn't fear death. Social workers would ask her if she was afraid of dying, but she realized it was the wrong question. 'Really what I should have been asked was if I was afraid of living – living with this reality and wondering how long I and others could live under that stress and unknown,' she said. 'I try to live every day as an adventure, because no one is guaranteed any amount of time, brain tumor or no brain tumor, and this experience has made that impossible to ignore.'
