On Saturday, June 8, 2024, the global healthcare community observed World Brain Tumour Day to shed light on the debilitating impact of brain tumours and the need for consistent efforts in educating people and supporting those affected by this condition.
History and Significance of World Brain Tumour Day
The history of World Brain Tumour Day dates back to the year 2000 when it was first observed by the German Brain Tumour Association (Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe e.V), a non-profit organization based in Leipzig. Since then, this international day has been dedicated to brain tumour patients across the globe and raising awareness about this brain disease.
Early diagnosis of brain tumours is crucial to prevent neurological symptoms and disabilities. Staying vigilant about the early signs can ensure timely treatment and speedy recovery. Especially cancerous tumours need to be addressed immediately before they become fatal. World Brain Tumour Day serves as a perfect opportunity to educate people about this deadly disease, address challenges related to it, support research, and also find newer and more technologically advanced treatment options.
Understanding Brain Tumours
A brain tumour is an unusual growth of tissues in the brain or its covering. It can be either cancerous or non-cancerous. If left untreated, all brain tumours could lead to disabilities and even death. Cancerous tumours require immediate treatment and grow faster than non-cancerous ones.
The symptoms of a brain tumour may differ depending on its location. If the tumour develops in less active parts of the brain, symptoms may not show up until the tumour grows very large. Brain tumours can either originate in brain tissue or spread to the brain from other parts of the body, which is known as a metastatic brain tumour.
Some common symptoms of brain tumours include seizures, weakness or numbness in hands or legs, imbalance while walking, hearing loss, changes in behaviour, double vision, memory loss, or headaches.
The theme for World Brain Tumour Day 2024: Brain Health and Prevention
The theme for World Brain Tumour Day 2024 is ‘Brain Health and Prevention’. Taking care of your brain health and eliminating possible risk factors can greatly contribute to avoiding the risk of this disease.
Considering family history of brain tumours, avoiding radiation exposure, and staying away from environmental hazards like smoking can help lower the risk. Awareness about brain health and prevention strategies is crucial in the fight against brain tumours.
This World Brain Tumour Day, let us join hands to spread awareness, support research, and promote brain health to prevent this debilitating condition.