World Brain Tumour Day 2023: Watch out for these early signs among youngsters

Further, changes in vision, such as blurred or double vision, loss of peripheral vision, or experiencing flashes of light, may also be associated with a brain tumour. “Youngsters encountering visual disturbances should undergo a comprehensive examination to identify the underlying cause. Brain tumours can also impact cognitive abilities and behavior, leading to unexplained changes in memory, concentration, problem-solving skills, or personality alterations like irritability, mood swings, or emotional instability,” Dr Lakshmi added.

Additionally, persistent or unexplained episodes of nausea and vomiting, particularly if unrelated to other digestive issues, should be evaluated, experts urge. “These symptoms may occur alongside headaches or other neurological signs. Balance and coordination problems, including difficulties with walking, maintaining equilibrium, or increased frequency of stumbling, may also be observed among young individuals with brain tumours. Additionally, weakness or numbness experienced in the arms, legs, or face, especially if it affects one side of the body, may be indicative of a brain tumour. Such symptoms could be accompanied by difficulties in speaking or understanding speech,” said Dr Lakshmi.

Dr Vipul Gupta, chief, neuro-interventional surgery and co-chief, stroke unit, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram,said that the early warning signs and symptoms can change depending on a brain tumour’s size, location, and the precise structures it affects. “Despite the fact that these symptoms can also be caused by other illnesses, it’s crucial to recognise the early warning signals, especially in youngsters,” he urged.

Types of brain tumours

Dr Ashok Hande, consultant-neuro and spine surgery, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi said that brain tumours can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). “Demographically, the incidence of brain tumours, particularly the malignant one, differs in the Indian population compared to the Western world. Astrocytomas, originating from brain cells themselves, are seen more frequently in younger age groups in India than the Western world, whilst the incidence of paediatric malignant tumours is almost the same,” said Dr Hande.

There are over a hundred brain tumours, pointed out by Dr Shylesh MP, consultant Neuro Surgeon, Fortis hospital, Richmond Road, Bangalore. “Some are benign (slow growing and non-invasive) while others are malignant (fast-growing, invade the surrounding brain matter). “Some of the brain tumours arise primarily within the brain or its coverings or other structures within the skull, while others spread from cancer elsewhere in the body, which we refer to as a metastatic brain tumour,” said Dr Shylesh.

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Causes and prevention

Rare inherited genetic disorders like Neurofibromatosis, Turcot syndrome, Gorlin syndrome, Tuberous Sclerosis and Li-Fraumeni syndrome may be associated with a spectrum of brain tumours, said Dr Shylesh. “Five-10 per cent of individuals with brain tumours have a family history. If multiple members of the same family are diagnosed with brain tumours, it is prudent to have genetic counselling and also before starting a family. Environmental risk factors like ionising radiation, radiofrequency waves from cell phones, harmful chemicals, etc have all been incriminated,” said Dr Shylesh.

Diagnosis and treatment

It is important to note that these signs can also be attributed to various other conditions, and their presence does not necessarily confirm the presence of a brain tumour. “However, if any of these symptoms persist or worsen over time, it is advisable to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection is paramount for successful treatment outcomes. By being aware of these potential warning signs and seeking timely medical attention, individuals, including young people, can increase the likelihood of early detection, prompt intervention, and improved prognosis,” Dr Lakshmi noted.

Not all brain tumours need to be operated on, particularly those that are detected accidentally and small in size, said Dr Hande. “This is true in old people. Such tumours can be observed carefully and could be intervened only when they grow in size,” said Dr Hande.

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