Don't miss the signs: Doctors warn of brain tumor surge among children
"Although brain tumors are more common in adults, even younger kids can be affected by this condition. According to the National Brain Tumor Society, approximately 5.7% of all primary brain tumors occur in children and adolescents aged 0-19 years. These tumors may be benign or malignant, but either way, timely medical care is vital," says Dr. Anurag Saxena, neurosurgeon at Manipal Hospital.The symptoms of brain tumors in children can often mimic more common conditions, leading to delays in diagnosis.Dr. Saxena explains that in infants, abnormal skull growth may be an early sign, while older children may show symptoms like seizures, excessive crying, unresponsiveness, or vision issues.For teenagers, persistent headaches, dizziness, vomiting, or coordination problems can indicate the presence of a tumor.advertisementEarly diagnosis is especially critical in children, as their developing brains are more vulnerable to damage. Diagnostic imaging such as MRI or CT scans remains the cornerstone of identifying these tumors.'Sometimes, benign tumors can be removed completely through surgery. But to avoid long-term damage, it's essential to catch these conditions early,' added Dr. Saxena.The pattern is not restricted to children alone. An increasing number of young adults, especially those aged 20 to 40, are also being diagnosed with brain tumors, a shift that medical experts are calling "alarming.""Brain tumors have historically been viewed as a problem primarily affecting older adults,' says Dr. Varindera Paul Singh, neurosurgeon at Medanta. 'However, data and clinical evidence now indicate an alarming increase in brain tumors among individuals aged 20 to 40. This shift calls for a renewed approach to brain health awareness within the younger population.'Dr. Singh points out that while improved imaging technologies like MRI have led to better detection rates, they alone cannot explain the rising numbers.Environmental factors, lifestyle-related stress, and genetic predispositions are also believed to contribute, although more research is needed to confirm this.A key challenge, he says, is that symptoms in younger adults, such as fatigue, nausea, or mild behavioural changes, are often brushed off as stress or lifestyle-related.advertisement"Because these changes are often subtle, many young patients ignore their symptoms altogether, allowing tumors to grow unnoticed. It is crucial to educate both the public and primary care providers that brain tumors can occur at any age," says Dr. Singh.In children, too, the signs can be subtle, but should never be overlooked. Dr. Shiji Chalipat, pediatric neurologist at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, highlights that immediate medical attention can be lifesaving.'Parents need to be proactive when it comes to their child's health. Just like adults, brain tumors are a common occurrence in children. Unfortunately, these tumors are linked to high morbidity and mortality, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial for improving quality of life," she says.Dr. Chalipat has outlined several red flags for parents to look out for:advertisementVomiting and Headaches: Persistent vomiting, especially in the morning or when coupled with headaches, could signal increased pressure inside the skull.Sensory Impairments: Difficulty with vision, hearing, or speech may indicate tumor growth depending on its location.Balance and Coordination Issues: Tumors affecting the brainstem may result in imbalance or trouble walking.Behavioural Changes: Sudden mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal should not be dismissed as mere tantrums.Seizures: Especially if they are new or unexplained, seizures are a strong warning sign and require urgent evaluation.Treatment plans often include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation depending on the tumor's size, location, and type.'Parents play a critical role in recognising and responding to these warning signs,' advises Dr. Chalipat. 'With prompt action, we can ensure children receive the right medical and surgical care, and the best possible chance at recovery.'The growing prevalence of brain tumors in both children and young adults is a sobering reminder of the need to stay vigilant. Whether it's a toddler showing signs of imbalance or a young professional battling persistent headaches, the message from doctors is clear: don't ignore the signs.Early diagnosis can be the difference between life and death or between lasting damage and full recovery.Trending Reel
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The Hindu
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- The Hindu
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News18
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Time of India
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How a suspected flu led to a brain tumour diagnosis for a 26-year-old man: Don't ignore headaches, fatigue, and other warning signs
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The initial results were promising. By February 2023, MRI scans revealed the tumour was shrinking—a rare moment of relief for Kieran and Abbie amid months of uncertainty and fear. Unfortunately, by mid-2023, the tumour became resistant to the treatment and began growing again. Doctors switched to lomustine chemotherapy, which successfully reduced the tumour but caused liver damage, forcing doctors to stop treatment. Surprisingly, even without active treatment, Kieran's tumour continued shrinking for 19 months, reducing from 5.5 cm to just 0.35 cm—an almost miraculous development. Brain tumour returns in 2025 as Kieran turns to fundraising and alternative therapies The respite didn't last. In June 2025, a routine MRI revealed that the tumour was growing again. After years of fighting, three surgeries, multiple rounds of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and temporary recovery, Kieran was once again facing the grim reality of a recurring, aggressive brain cancer. Determined to turn pain into purpose, Kieran and Abbie launched Kieran's Krew, an online fundraising campaign. Initially intended to support brain cancer charities, it soon grew into a community-driven movement funding alternative therapies like: Oxygen therapy, which may improve cellular healing Red-light therapy, which some studies suggest could reduce inflammation To date, over £57,000 has been raised to support brain tumour charities and provide Kieran with therapies that improve his quality of life. 'At every scan, we hoped for good news. Even when it was shrinking, we knew it could change at any time. Now we want to use our journey to help others,' Abbie explained. The brain tumour diagnosis profoundly changed Kieran's life. Short-term memory loss, chronic pain, hospital visits, and emotional distress became part of daily life. Yet, Kieran remained determined to focus on positive moments, supported by family, friends, and the broader community that rallied around him. 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