Brain Cancer

About 

A brain tumor forms when abnormal cells grow in the tissues of the brain.

Types 

Brain tumors can either be:

• Non-cancerous – benign.
• Cancerous – malignant.
• Primary brain tumors – mostly found in children, begin in the brain.
• Secondary tumors – commonly referred to as metastatic cancer that has spread from another cancer in the body such as from the lungs, breast, or other parts of the body are mostly found in adults.

Symptoms 

Brain cancer symptoms may include:

• Headaches.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Changes or problems in speech, vision, or hearing.
• Difficulty balancing or walking.
• Changes in mood, personality, or ability to concentrate.
• Problems with memory.
• Muscle jerking or twitching (seizures).
• Loss of sensation or movement in the arms or legs.

If you or your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a MemorialCare Physician partner.

Risk Factors & Prevention 

You are at a greater risk for brain cancer if you:

• Are Caucasian.
• Are male.
• Are over the age of 70 years or under the age of eight.
• Have a family history of gliomas or brain tumors.
• Are exposed to radiation or to chemicals.

The causes of primary brain tumors and the ways to prevent them are unknown. Secondary brain tumors (metastatic tumors) are caused by cancer from other parts of the body spreading to the brain.