World Brain Tumour Day: Early Detection Saves Lives, say city doctors
Nagpur: Eminent neurologists from the city joined experts from across the globe on World Brain Tumour Day to raise awareness about the disease.
At an event held at the Indian Medical Association (IMA) headquarters in Nagpur, specialists emphasised the importance of early diagnosis, discussed symptoms and treatment options, and highlighted the multifaceted challenges faced by patients and their families.
Renowned neurologist and Padma Shri Dr Chandrashekhar Meshram stressed the need for timely detection and comprehensive care. He said awareness about the type of brain tumour and its symptoms is crucial. "If diagnosed in the early stages, proper treatment can save lives. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment are extremely important," he added.
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain, which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
These growths can either originate in the brain (primary brain tumours) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic tumours).
Prominent neurosurgeon Dr Vivek Agrawal reiterated the importance of awareness, stating that early detection and medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes. However, due to the complexity of the brain and its functions, brain tumours can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages.
Common symptoms that require attention include persistent headaches, nausea or vomiting, seizures, vision or hearing problems, memory loss or confusion, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
Dr Agrawal also explained that the purpose of Brain Tumour Day is to educate the public about the disease and its impact, to express solidarity with patients, survivors, and caregivers, and to promote and fund research for better treatments and potential cures.
In India, the prevalence of brain tumours is estimated to be 8 to 10 cases per 1,00,000 population, with around 28,000 new cases reported annually. Neurologist Dr Ninad Shrikhande pointed out that the actual figure may be significantly higher due to underreporting, largely caused by a lack of awareness, limited healthcare accessibility, and financial constraints.
Despite the challenges associated with a brain tumour diagnosis, experts conveyed a strong message of hope. Advancements in medical science, combined with increased awareness, are leading to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life for many patients.
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