A brain tumour refers to the growth of abnormal cells in or near the brain. There are over 120 different types of brain tumours depending on the tissue the tumour effects. Whilst all brain cancers are tumours, but not all brain tumours are cancerous. Brain tumours can cause a wide range of symptoms, however even if a tumour is non-cancerous, it can still cause harm by pushing down on areas of the brain or blocking fluid which builds pressure within the skull and requires treatment. Depending on the source of a brain tumour it can be primary (where the tumour starts in the brain), or secondary metastatic (where the tumour starts elsewhere in the body and spreads to the brain). Whilst there are many types of brain tumours, in adults, glioblastomas are the most common and aggressive form of high grade 4 primary brain tumours. There are 4 different grade types of brain tumours explained below:
Grade 1 and 2 tumours are characterized as slow growing. Because they are relatively contained, they are less likely to spread to other areas of the brain. If completely removed, there is less chance of recurrence. They are sometimes referred to as benign.
Grade 3 and 4 tumours are characterized as fast growing and are more likely to spread to other parts of the brain. They have a higher likelihood of returning even if treated and are often referred to as ‘malignant’ or ‘cancerous’.
There are cases where tumours contain a mix of cells with different grade ratings. In this case, the tumour will be graded according to the highest grade of cells found in the tumour, even if the majority of the cells are found to be low grade.
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brainstrust is a UK based brain tumour charity that provides personalised support and resources for people with a brain tumour, as well as for their loved ones. They work with people in clinical settings to secure the best possible care for people with a brain tumour and campaign for real world issues.
Brain Tumour Research is a UK charity focused on finding a cure for all types of brain tumours through campaigning to increase the national investment in brain tumour research, and creating a network sustainable Brain Tumour Research Centres of Excellence across the UK.
The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. They're committed to finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change.
A clinical trial is a type of research or investigational study that tests the effects and safety of a medical treatment, device, or intervention which is not yet approved, on people who volunteer to take part. Its goal is to evaluate, prior to approval, how safe and effective the treatment is for a specific health condition before it is made available to the general public. In addition to treating diseases, clinical trials also investigate new ways to diagnose and prevent illnesses.
People with certain health conditions, such as a brain tumour, may be eligible to participate in clinical trials. Researchers set specific criteria for participation, which might depend on factors like age or other medical conditions. To determine eligibility, you may need to answer questions or have a medical exam. Some trials involve healthy participants without any health conditions, while others may include individuals with a family history of a certain disease or condition.
We make it straightforward for patients and their physicians to discover and receive support with accessing clinical trials. We empower patients and their families to know and understand their options and make the best possible decisions regarding their treatment journey.
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