A brain Tumour Brain tumors are abnormal growths of tissue in the brain or central spinal cord that can disrupt normal brain function. There are two main types of tumors: malignant and benign (non-malignant). Symptoms of brain tumors can include early morning headaches, nausea and vomiting, behavioral and cognitive changes, dizziness or unsteadiness, speech problems, vision and hearing loss, seizures, and weakness or paralysis. Despite these symptoms, brain tumors are often surrounded by misconceptions that can cause unnecessary fear and confusion.

So, to bust the myths, we got in touch with Dr Sameer Kale, Consultant Neurosurgeon (Brain & Spine), Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai, who dispels the myths and shares facts about brain tumour.

Myth 1: All brain tumors are cancerous

fact: This is a myth! Not all tumours can be cancerous as some are benign (non-malignant) tumours and can be treated by surgery.

Myth 2: Brain tumors are common in older people

fact: Brain tumors can occur in people of any age. Unfortunately, brain tumors have been found in newborns as well.

Myth 3: Brain tumors are seen only in people who have a family history of the disease

fact: There is no evidence in the form of any study or research that can prove that people who have family members with brain tumors are more likely to get the disease.

Myth 4: Lifestyle changes may help keep brain tumour at bay

fact: One’s lifestyle does not cause brain tumors. Therefore, lifestyle changes cannot prevent brain tumors. Daily exercise, a balanced diet that is high in fiber, and abstaining from chewing tobacco, smoking, and alcohol can help improve overall health. However, it is not known whether these lifestyle changes are beneficial for preventing brain tumors.

Myth 5, Every person suffering from brain tumor will show similar symptoms and signs

fact, Each person suffering from a brain tumor will experience different symptoms depending on the size, location, and grade of the tumor.

Myth 6, Hair coloring can cause brain tumors

fact, There are no studies available to show a link between hair color or dye and the development of brain tumors.

Myth 7: Artificial sweeteners may cause brain tumors

fact: It is known that excessive consumption of artificial sweeteners does not cause brain tumors but rather colon and stomach cancer.

Myth 8: Are brain tumors contagious?

fact: This is a false statement. Brain tumors are not contagious and cannot spread from one person to another.

Myth 9: Death from a brain tumor

fact: Not all brain tumors are fatal. The prognosis depends on the type, location, size of the tumor, and the person’s overall health. Many tumors can be successfully managed with prompt intervention.

Myth 10: Brain surgery may cause cognitive impairment

fact: Currently, due to advances in technology, timely brain surgery will reduce the risk of cognitive impairment and improve the patient’s quality of life. One should not worry or panic as the neurosurgeon takes adequate care and ensures to preserve brain function during tumor extraction.

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