Four Emerging Breakthroughs In Solving Brain Tumors

Despite significant advances in cancer research and treatment, one form of cancer - brain tumors - remain particularly feared, and for good reason. Because of their location, brain tumors can severely impact an individual's personality, memories and basic motor skills, robbing the patient of their very being. The impact on family and friends is felt greatly, as their loved one may be "lost" to them even earlier than feared. While there are more than 120 types of brain tumors, for the most common and serious adult tumors, Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the chances of living 5 years is less than 3%. Most patients will live no more than a year or two despite aggressive therapy.

However, few maladies manage to both simultaneously confound researchers in their mystery, yet hold such promise for the cure and management as prominently as brain tumors. There is strong belief that some significant breakthroughs in brain tumor treatment may only be 4-6 years away. Complementing traditional chemotherapeutic and surgical approaches, four emerging breakthroughs are discussed here which are rapidly transforming the treatment of brain tumors and related conditions.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy approaches involve the insertion of genes into growing brain tumors, rendering them more sensitive to some chemotherapeutic agents that are relatively non-toxic to the rest of the body. Some promising experiments have demonstrated that with insertion of genes into animal brain tumor cells and administration of chemotherapy, complete destruction of the tumor may be possible without spread of the tumor. Other approaches in gene therapy include substitution of abnormal genes for normal genes, the repair of abnormal genes via selective reverse mutation, and gene regulation (i.e., altering the instructions within a gene to "turn on or off").

Vaccines

One area showing substantial promise in brain tumor treatment is based on an immunotherapeutic approach; that is, using a patient's immune system as an instrument for cancer therapy. This approach is premised on a body's immune response toward cells bearing tumor markers or antigens. One major focus area has been "active immunotherapy", described as the administration of the tumor antigenic material to help "vaccinate" a patient against their own tumor. Other vaccine approaches, including Dendritic cell-based vaccines, Cytokine immunogene therapy, Bacterial and viral tumor vaccines, and GBM-specific molecular pathway vaccines are also being considered. The vaccine approach holds challenges that need to be evaluated against other treatment options that may require crucial patient choices, but they are continuing to emerge as an area of significant promise.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery/Radiotherapy

There is growing usage of stereotactic radiosurgery and radiotherapy among neurosurgeons. The tools, used for the non-invasive treatment of tumors and other brain, head, spine and neck conditions, use sophisticated mechanical systems and image-guided technology to treat tumors, using high, targeted doses of radiation (in a single session) to attack the tumor and minimizing contact with healthy tissue. The image guidance systems direct the radiation to the tumor; some systems shape the radiation beam to map to the exact shape of the tumor, and software can help direct the ideal access points to the tumor.

Dual Agent Drug Therapies

Some of the field's leading researchers have concluded that traditional treatment for many brain tumors has started with a faulty premise; namely, that interventions for brain tumors were simply a palliative effort designed to decrease patient discomfort and increase stabilization. The conclusion is that while these therapies have shown some success on their own, when multiple therapeutic agents are combined, (an approach more commonly used with cancers not as fatal) an increasing number of brain tumor patients are seeing increases in survival. Also, newer drugs are showing the ability to block the growth of tumors by attempting to interfere with their proteins that control tumor growth. And other, specialized treatment regimens are being formulated for patients whose tumors are shown to grow at an accelerated rate compared with typical tumors.

These are but four of the emerging approaches where we may continue to see major breakthroughs in treatment or management of brain tumors. The hope in all these courses is that ultimately, brain tumors may in some cases be curable or at least achieve status as a manageable disease, as with many other serious and chronic conditions such as diabetes.

Mike Tancredi provides services for http://www.unlockingbraintumors.org/ a non profit organization dedicated to raising and distributing funds for the continued research into brain tumors

Original article

Different Types of Primary Brain Tumors

When it comes to brain tumors, the medical profession does not have a standard system to describe the spread of cancer. Primary brain tumors are usually formed in the central nervous system and invariably they do not spread to other parts of the body. In order to treat these tumors, doctors classify they based on the type of cell in which the tumor began, the location of the tumor in the brain and what grade the tumor is.

Here is a list of some of the different types of primary brain tumors that occur in adults:

o Brain Stem Gliomas: This is a type of tumor that forms in the brain stem, which the part that connects the brain to the spinal cord. The tumor is usually high grade, meaning it spreads very quickly and is difficult to cure.
o Pineal Astrocytic Tumor: This type of tumor occurs in or near the pineal gland. This gland is responsible for producing melatonin hormone which governs our sleeping and waking patterns. This tumor can be of any grade.
o Pilocytic Astrocytoma: This tumor is a grade I tumor and develops in brain cells called astrocytes. The tumor grows slowly and very rarely does it spread to neighboring tissues of the brain. The tumor can be cured and is seen more often in children and young adults.
o Diffuse Astrocytoma: This is another tumor that develops in astrocytes. It grows slowly and has the tendency to spread to the neighboring brain cells. This is a grade II tumor seen mostly in young adults.
o Anaplastic Astrocytoma: This tumor is also called malignant astrocytomas and grows very fast and spreads to the adjacent brain cells. The cancer cells look different from normal cells and is develops mostly by the time a person reaches 40 years of age. This is a grade III brain tumor.
o Glioblastoma: This is one of the most aggressive brain tumors and is categorized as grade IV brain tumor. It is more commonly referred to as glioblastoma multiforme and is usually fatal. It is very difficult to treat and occurs mostly in adults ranging from 45 years to 70 years.

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Effects of Brain Cancer, Nadir and Chemotherapy

Original article

What You Need to Know Regarding Brain Tumors

Brain - It is a spongy bunch of tissue, and is sheltered by the skull with 3 thin membranes that is called the meninges. The diluted fluid that is known as the cerebrospinal fluid protects the brain. The fluids will flow throughout the spaces in between the meninges and to spaces within brains that is known to be the ventricles.

Cancer - it started with cells, which is the main component that builds up tissues. The tissues that is responsible for building up the organs of the body.

Normally, cells will grow and divides to form another new cell as long as the body needs the cells. As cells are growing old, the cells die, and it will be replaced by the new cells.
Occasionally, this systematic procedure goes wrong. New cells are keeps on forming even the body does not need them or old cells wound not die even if they should. These extra cells will then form into masses of tissues that are called the tumor.

Benign brain tumors

These are tumors that do not have cancer cells. Benign brain tumor can usually be removed and also hardly ever to grow back. The borders and edges of benign brain tumors are clearly seen, and cells from benign tumors are not invading the tissues that are surrounding them. But, benign tumors could press with the sensitive portion of the brain that may cause a severe health problem. Nothing like benign tumors in the other parts of the body, benign tumors in the brain are often times life threatening. It is seldom turns to a malignant tumor.

Malignant brain tumors

It is a tumor that contains cancer cells. It is generally more severe and more often life threatening. It grows speedily and invades the nearby healthy brain tissues. Cancer cells seldom breaks away with the malignant tumors and spread up from one part to another parts of the brain or even to the body. The spreading is called the metastasis. Other times, the malignant tumors do not go beyond the healthy tissues. Tumor might be contained in a layer of tissues or bones of the skull. It is called the encapsulated tumor.

Tumor Grade

Brain tumors are grouped by grades, ranging from grade l to grade lV. These grades referred to the looks of the cells under the microscope. Cells that are of higher grades look more irregular and it grows faster compared to the cells that are of lower grade tumors.

Primary brain tumors - these are tumors that begin within the brain tissues. They are named from the type of the cells or portion of brain from where they begin.

Secondary brain tumors - once the cancer had spread up from the original part to the other position in the body.

Know some information about brain tumors Click here for more Info.

Original article

Is There a Link Between Cell Phones and Brain Tumors?

Today everyone is informed about the dangers of smoking cigarettes but back in the 1970's nine out of ten doctors recommended smoking Camels. My point being, there is a multi-billion dollar cell phone industry that has a vested interest in keeping the public unaware of the dangers of cell phones.

It's now official, the studies are out, there is a definite link between cell phones and malignant brain tumors.

An article published in The Sun titled "Cancer Risk in Mobile Phones: Official" starts with the sentence "MOBILE phones DO increase the risk of brain cancer, scientists claimed yesterday."

The article goes on to say French scientists found that a person who is a long-term mobile phone user is more likely to develop a malignant brain tumor called glioma.

"The chances of developing a malignant tumour are "significantly increased" for people who use a mobile for ten years. The shock finding is the result of the biggest ever study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organisation."

This is just one newspaper article out of thousands that are saying essentially the same thing.

If you do some deeper research into the peer reviewed studies, you'll find out cell phones actually heat up the brain around the ear area by a degree or two. This effectively breaks down the blood brain barrier, which is a defense against the poisons in your body becoming lodged in your brain.

With an open blood-brain barrier, harmful things like heavy metals, are allowed to cross into your brain and cause permanent damage. Talking on your cell phone for ten minutes opens your blood-brain barrier for the next 14 hours.

Take your health into your own hands, do some research on cell phones and brain cancer, and then take steps to protect yourself and loved ones.

References
1. http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/article1814931.ece

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Original article

Cell Phone Use Associated With Increased Risk of Brain Tumors

I haven't got a brilliant memory, but sometimes something somebody lets me know does somehow stick in my mind. One such memory I have concerns a patient I saw some years back. He had had a brain swelling (I forget what sort) removed, and had an interest in supporting his recovery and general health through nourishment. During our consultation he remarked he had a boy that also had had a brain tumor. I questioned if his doctors believed there was any genetic link.

He responded in the negative, and told me it was his opinion that mobile telephones were the cause. This person went on to tell me that both he and his child were early adopters of this technology, and by their own admission were heavy users too. He went on to inform me a tale about an experience he had after he had had his operation. He was sitting in a packed waiting room full of post-surgical patients. Nearly all of the patients in the room had had brain growths removed and the scarring to prove it.

A chat about mobile telephones started in the waiting room, so my patients made a decision to take a straw poll then and there. All of the patients who had had brain growths turned out to be mobile telephone users. Now, there's nothing especially telling here I suspect, because mobile telephone use is so common.

However, my patients went one better in his poll by then asking each individual which ear they habitually held their mobile telephone to. He reported to me the side they indicated matched the side of their growth in each case. This is all only anecdotal observation and all that, and does not prove a thing, but this memory came back to me this morning after reading about some research which was published lately at the Royal Society in a meeting held by the Radiation Research Trust.

The study was conducted by a team controlled by Professor Lennart Hardell of the University Hospice in Orebro in Sweden. It hasn't been officially broadcast yet, though from what I am able to make out, the data has come from a formerly released piece of analysis from Professor Hardell.

The analysis targeted on the likelihood of precise cancers in people who started to use mobile telephones before the age of twenty. Younger folks were the target for this research because they are said to be more subject to the electronic radiation that emanates from mobile telephones, mainly because their skulls are thinner and may permit the radiation to penetrate more deeply into the brain. The analysis discovered that people who started mobile telephone use before the age of 20 were at terribly noticeably increased (more than 5-fold) likelihood of brain growths known as 'gliomas' as well as benign (non-cancerous) swellings on the main nerve in charge of hearing known as 'acoustic neuromas'.

According to reports, use of cordless home telephones were at seriously raised likelihood of glioma too. People who started to use mobile handsets in their 20s were also at increased likelihood of glioma and acoustic neuroma, though the boosted risk was smaller than that seen in the earlier users: possibility of glioma and acoustic neuroma was up about fifty and a hundred p.c. respectively.

Professor Hardell is quoted as asserting: This is a caution sign. It is extremely troubling. We deserve to be taking precautions. It is maybe fascinating to notice Professor Hardell's previous work in this area, particularly a meta-analysis of studies taking a look at the link between mobile telephone use and brain swelling risk.

People using mobile telephones in the long run (ten or more years) were revealed to be at an increased chance of glioma and acoustic neuroma on the side of telephone use (risk was increased by two hundred and 240 per cent respectively. Mobile telephone use wasn't related to increased risk of these cancers on the other side of the head to the one that the telephone is habitually held. The proof as it hands supports the assumption long term mobile telephone use is indeed related to an increased risk of brain cancers, just like my patient thought it was years back.

Paul Fitzgerald, EMF expert, graduated from NJIT in Newark, NJ. He has been studying EMF's for over 15 years. He has done over 100 radio shows in 2006 and promotes promotes cell phone radiation reduction airtube headsets to the public for protection from cell phone radiation, go to Airtube Headsets To educate yourself go to http://www.emfnews.org/ Also, Qlink Pendants for Cell tower Protection and in home radiation protection

Original article

Cell Phones and Brain Tumors - New Evidence of Wireless Mobile Phone Linked to Brain Cancer

OK, here we go again. Decades ago, there was widespread panic over the possibility that overhead high tension electrical power lines could be a cause of cancer for people living in close proximity or underneath them. When that was disproved, the doomsday crowd went onto blame cell phones as a possible risk of brain cancer due to tiny amounts of radiation emitted when the phone is transferring data. Thus far, after dozens of studies, there has been NO conclusive evidence that cell phones produce a significant enough amount of radiation to create a measurable increase in the risk of cancer. But is there a cause for concern? Just who conducted those tests?

A new joint study from the University of California at Berkeley and multiple Universities in Korea, reexamined 465 article published in major journals along with 23 large scale case studies of over 37,916 patients. The study group was comprised of patients with and without brain tumors. They found that when they look at the group as a whole, there was no association between brain tumors and cell phone use. When they looked closer however, and divided the large group into clinically significant subgroups, there was a clear increase in risk for cancer, of up to 30%. Furthermore, they found that some of the previous studies that had yielded results of "no risk," were in fact funded by cell phone manufacturers.

Other experts including neurosurgeons have long agreed that cell phones can cause brain tumors. One such doctor, Dr. Vini Khurana, even stated that he thought mobile phones could be more dangerous than smoking or asbestos. He pointed out the there are 3 billion cell phone users in the world, which is a whopping 3 times the number of smokers worldwide, and smoking leads to 5 million deaths per year.

Advocate groups still insist however that there is no concrete, established risk. They cite correctly that in journal after peer reviewed journal, there is an overwhelming consensus that wireless cell phones do not pose a public health risk. Their claims are further backed up by the FDA, the FCC, American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute and the World Health Organization. Imagine, all of those private and federal watchdog groups agreeing on a single thing!

What's the bottom line? This author still isn't sure. All I know is that there are still people who believe that the lunar landing was a big hoax. There are nurses that work for me, that sadly, still won't get vaccinations for their kids for fear of increased risk of Down syndrome. For me, I'm not giving up my cell phone anytime soon. If the risk really is that significant, then we can also say that "the place we carry the phone on our bodies, may increase the risk of cancer in that particular body area." For instance, I often carry my cell phone in my shirt pocket. Will I have an increased risk for breast cancer? Hmm, I always wondered what a mammogram would feel like...

Richard Fan is a practicing emergency/trauma physician assistant in a busy Southern California ER, and an medical officer on the national disaster response team, DMAT CA-1. Please visit Smart Life Store where you'll get unbiased opinions and reviews about the latest in Tasers and Nannycams units.

Original article

Treatment For Brain Tumors

Many persons with brain cancers want to know everything regarding their disease as well their treatment. Nevertheless, stress and shock after diagnosis of brain cancer may make it harder for everything. The patient really found it hard to be thinking of what to ask for the doctor.

It sometimes helps in making a listing of queries before going to the doctor. To aid in recalling what the physician says, the patient may take remarks or ask if she/he can use tape recorder. Others wish to bring a family member or friends with them as they talk with the doctor.

The patient might ask for referral. Specialists who cure brain cancers include neuro-oncologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologist and medical oncologists.
Before the start of treatment, the patient might wish for second opinion regarding diagnosis and treatment plan. Various insurance groups require 2nd opinion; others might cover 2nd opinion when the physician or patients request it.

The following are the ways in order to seek for second opinion:

Doctors of the patient might pass on the patient to other specialists. At cancer institutions, several specialists frequently act together as team. Cancer Information Services can inform callers regarding adjacent treatment centers. A local or state medical society, an adjacent hospital or medical school can generally give the names of the specialists.

ABMS have listing of physicians who have undergone training needs and have met particular education and were able to pass field examinations. The directory can be found in several public libraries. The ABMS directory contains the names of specialists along with educational background and their specialty.

The physician may describe choices in treatment and may discuss the outcome expected with every treatment option. The doctor as well as the patient may work together in order to create a treatment preparation that can fit the needs of the patient. Treatment is dependent on the amount of factors, which includes the type, size, location and grade of the cancer. For a few types of brain tumor, it is necessary for the doctor to know whether the tumor cells were seen in the CSF or cerebrospinal fluid.

The treatment depends on the number of reasons, counting the type, location, size, and grade of tumor. For a few types of brain cancer, the doctor also needs to know whether cancer cells were found in the cerebrospinal fluids.

A patient may ask the following questions to the physician before the start of treatment:

- Is the tumor benign or malignant?
- What was the type of brain tumor the patient has?
- What are the choices of treatment?
- What were the advantages of every type of treatments?
- What were the probable side effects and risks of every treatment?

The most important thing to consider before submitting to any treatment is the preparedness of the patient.

Learn the possible treatments for the Brain Tumors and know the possible steps if being diagnosed with tumor. For more information, visit us at: http://TumorTreatment.org/

Original article

Brain Tumors - What Are They and How Are They Treated?

The cause of brain tumors is not well understood by the medical profession. There are many different types of brain tumor and the symptoms they cause and the treatment given varies. A brain tumor is sometimes referred to as brain cancer.

Brain tumors can be either primary or secondary. Primary tumors develop from brain cells and can be either benign (they do not spread into other areas of the brain) or malignant (they do spread through the surrounding brain tissue). Secondary brain tumors occur when cancer cells from another part of the body such as the lung spread to the brain. When a cancer cells spreads from another part of the body this is referred to as a metastasize.

A doctor may suspect a brain tumor if a patient presents with, for example, seizures, persistent headaches with sickness, a change in behaviour (mental status) or visual or hearing problems. Sometimes the patient with suffer from photophobia (dislike of bright lights) or neck stiffness. A CT or MRI scan is usually required to confirm the diagnosis. If a brain tumor is suspected the doctor will need to undertake surgery to remove part of the suspect cells for testing.

This is known as a biopsy. The cells will then be examined under a microscope to see if they are benign or malignant. If the cells are malignant treatment will be required. Treatment may include surgery to remove the cancerous cells. The surgery will be undertaken by a neurosurgeon who specialise in operating on the brain. Other treatments include radiotherapy or chemotherapy which work by killing the malignant cells. Sometimes medication such as steroids will be prescribed to treat the brain tumor.

If a GP or Consultant fail to diagnose or correctly treat a brain tumor this may give rise to a claim for clinical negligence compensation. There are three main circumstances, which could lead to a clinical negligence claim as a result of a brain tumor:

Firstly there may be a delay in diagnosing the tumor. This could be because the doctor such as a GP has failed to pick up on signs and symptoms, which should have led to further investigations. For a claim to be successful it is necessary to show that the delay has resulted in a worse outcome. Delays are particularly significant in dealing with benign tumors as they are more likely to be curable and often the size of the tumor and the ease with which it can be removed relate directly to how good a recovery can be made.

Secondly once a diagnosis of a brain tumor has been made it is important that the doctors discuss the treatment options with the patient very carefully. In some case surgery may carry a significant risk of leaving the patient with severe disabilities and can cause a benign tumor to become malignant. Other options such as radiotherapy to kill the affected cells or simply monitoring the tumor by regular scanning might be preferable.

Thirdly if surgery is decided upon it may not be undertaken with sufficient care. Brain surgery is very complicated. Complications such as a stroke or damage to other parts of the brain may occur during the operation. If these complications could have been avoided with reasonable care, a claim for compensation may be made.

Head Injury UK are specialist solicitors who investigate cases of medical negligence connected with the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors.

http://www.headinjuryuk.com/ are specilist solicitors who provide legal advice and medical information to those affected by traumatic brain injury and its potentially severe consequences. Contact us for a free, confidential, no obligation inquiry.

Original article

Common Types of Childhood Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors

There are many common types of childhood brain and spinal cord tumors. If your child has recently been diagnosed with a tumor in the central nervous system, it is essential that you work to learn as much as you possibly can pertaining to the condition. The first step is to gain an understanding of the most common tumors that affect children.

In this medical guide, you will learn just that. Childhood brain and spinal cord tumors are often quite challenging to contend with overall as far as symptoms and treatments are concerned, but with the advances in the medical field, many tumors are treatable.

CNS Embryonal

The CNS or "Central Nervous System" embryonal is a common tumor that affects children. These childhood brain and spinal cord tumors actually form in the brain cells as well as the spinal cord cells when the child is considered a fetus - before birth. There are many different types of tumors that a child may develop if they suffer from a CNS embryonal.

These include an ependymoblastoma, medulloepithelioma, pineoblastoma, and a medulloblastoma. It is often challenging to identify these tumors. However, many women participate in an ultrasound at least during pregnancy. Medical professionals are typically able to identify these tumors through this process.

Astrocytomas

When it comes to childhood brain and spinal cord tumors, astrocytomas are quite common. A child that experiences a situation in which tumors form in the cells that are identified as astrocytes is said to have this type of tumor. These types of tumors may be further classified as either a low or high grade.

Those that are considered to be high as far as the overall grade is concerned typically grow at a rapid rate and also spreads quite quickly. These tumors are also considered to be malignant. This means that they are cancerous. Those tumors that are considered to be in the grade of low are those that progress at a slow rate of speed and are not likely to be cancerous.

Conclusion

There are many different childhood brain and spinal cord tumors that kids may be affected by. If you are informed by a medical professional that your child has a tumor in the central nervous system, it is important that you learn as much as you possibly can about the abnormal growth. You should discuss the following with your child's doctor:

• It is important to know which type of tumor that your child has.

• You should inquire about the location, and general size of the tumor.

• You should ask about the types of treatments that are available for the tumor.

• It is important to understand what symptoms will be experienced as a result of the abnormal growth.

• You should become educated on each of the brain cancer treatments that are available and inquire about which are the most appropriate for your child's condition.

• You should inquire about special funding sources and other types of resources that may assist you and your family while your child receives care.

If you receive the above information, it will allow you the opportunity to make well informed decisions pertaining to childhood brain and spinal cord tumors.

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About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at!

If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: [http://www.AnneAhiraRecommends.com]

Original article

Astrocytoma Brain Cancer Tumors

Astrocytoma brain cancer tumors are considered to be the most common type of Glioma. These tumors may develop in various regions of the brain, as well as the spinal cord. These particular type of brain cancer tumors initiate from cells that are called astrocytes. The area of the brain that these are most commonly identified is the main region. This is commonly referred to as the cerebrum.

It has been established that these have the capability of affecting any individual, at any time in their life. While there have been cases of Astrocytoma a brain cancer tumor in children, this condition is most often diagnosed among those that are part of the adult population. When children are diagnosed with these tumors, they are most commonly located in the base region of the brain rather than the main region of the brain.

Common Symptoms

There are many common symptoms that are often experienced when an individual has an Astrocytoma brain cancer tumor. The symptoms that are experienced often correlate with the pressure against the brain and skull regions as a result of the size of the tumor. It is common for an individual to exhibit behavior changes.

The person may exhibit a personality that is much different than their own, they may seem to change from one mood to another in a fast-paced and mysterious manner, and they may exhibit marked signs of irritability.

Individuals that have this type of tumor with their brain cancer will often experience headaches and pain in the neck region. Gastrointestinal complications such as vomiting are also one of the most common symptoms associated with the Astrocytoma brain cancer tumor.

Diagnosing the Astrocytoma Brain Tumor

Diagnosing the Astrocytoma brain tumor is a challenging task to many medical professionals. A full neurological examination is typically ordered if a patient is exhibiting certain symptoms. One of the main signs that a doctor will look for is any type of mental based dysfunction.

In some instances, a patient that is exhibiting new, unusually painful headaches and swelling may be further evaluated. In addition to these symptoms, those that experience seizures and signs of potential swelling such as vomiting will be referred to a neurologist for a full, in-depth medical examination.

There are many different tests that may be used to determine if an individual has an Astrocytoma brain cancer tumor. One of the main diagnostic tools used to scan the brain for this type of tumor is the MRI or the Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan.

Many neurologists will also use the CT or CAT scan, which stands for Computed Tomography. In diagnosing this type of brain cancer tumor, many doctors may utilize tests that help gauge the coordination, the hearing, and the vision in order to effectively rule out other medical conditions.

Treatment

There are several different methods used to treat an Astrocytoma brain cancer tumor. The first is usually surgery as the neurologist will want to remove as much of it as possible. Immediately following surgery, the patient may have to undergo chemotherapy and possibly even radiation therapy to ensure that all components of the tumor are successfully eliminated.

If you have this type of tumor, it is important to work closely with your doctor and follow the treatment regimen as closely as possible so that your symptoms are reduced and that as much of the tumor is eliminated as possible.

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Author: Anne Ahira, CEO of Asian Brain Company

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Original article

Is There a Correlation Between Cell Phones and Brain Tumors?

There have been many studies conducted that indicate that there could be a correlation between cell phones and brain tumors. As a matter of fact, these studies actually lead medical professionals and other types of specialists to believe that there is, in fact, a relationship between the development of brain tumors and frequent phone use.

As a matter of fact, legislators in the State of Maine recently tried to get a bill passed in which cell phone manufacturers would have to put the following warning on their phones prior to distributing them to retailers:

"...This device emits electromagnetic radiation, exposure to which may cause brain cancer..."

- Courtesy of CNN.com Video

While this particular request to pass this bill failed in March of 2010, the Federal Drug Administration is encouraging companies that manufacturer these devices to create phones that help eliminate the increased exposure to the radiation that increases the risks associated with brain tumors and the onset of brain cancer.

What do the Professionals Have to Say?

The medical professionals and various researchers that have studied the effect of long term cell phone use state that there could be a biological based issue involved that result in issues that pertain to the tissues in the body.

These professionals stand by the fact that cell phones have not really been in use long enough to provide concise statistical data that supports the claims, but they also stand by the fact that the possibilities are there that there could be a direct correlation between brain cancer and the use of this type of mobile device.

While cell phones are found to meet the FCC's standards for safety, but medical professionals are urging individuals that use these phones to understand that there could be a potential issue and to use the devices with caution.

Preventing Brain Tumors with Cell Phone Use

Based on the epidemiological studies conducted by those that are interested in establishing the link between cell phone use and brain tumors, the evidence is not conclusive enough to say that there is a direct link. However, these professionals do believe that there are some strategies that may be used to successfully prevent the possibility that brain tumors may develop as a result of phone use. The following prevention strategies seem to be logical based on what is known about this link:

• Individuals that use a cell phone should keep the mobile device as far away from their body as possible to reduce the exposure to the radiation that is emitted from the device.

• There are many hands-free and standard headsets that may be used in conjunction with cell phones. Those that are concerned about their exposure to radiation should use these cell phone accessories.

• Individuals that have a family history or a personal medical history that includes any type of tumor and/or cancer - specifically in the head and spinal cord region - should have regular checkups to ensure that they are in the clear on such medical complications as newly developed tumors.

If these strategies are incorporated when cell phones are used, an individual's chance of developing a brain tumor may be drastically reduced.

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About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

Making a lucrative income online is a challenging endeavor, but by getting the *right* information, it is an endeavor that you can succeed at!

If you want to LEARN how to make a LUCRATIVE income online from Professional Marketers you can TRUST, below is the *only* product Anne Ahira recommends: [http://www.AnneAhiraRecommends.com]

Original article

Brain Tumors - The Most Common Types of Brain Tumors

There are many different types of brain tumors. Doctors use a method that is referred to as "Classification". This is nothing more than grouping the many different types of brain tumors according to the characteristics that they possess. Naturally, each of the tumors that affect the brain are issued a specific names.

Medical professionals and scientists use this particular classification system so that they may gather statistical data, uncover the underlying cause of the development of the various tumors that develop in the brain, and determine the treatment strategy for the tumors. Additionally, many may make a prognosis based on the information that they obtain from their studies. In this medical guide, you will learn about the most common types of brain tumors.

Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic Neuroma is a tumor that directly impacts the nerve that assists in hearing. Medical professionals refer to this as the "8th Cranial Nerve". This is considered to be a slow growing brain tumor that is typically identified in the region of the brain that is referred to as the cerebellum as well as the area that is referred to as the pons.

The pons are located in the area of the brain that is referred to as the posterior fossa. When it comes to statistical data, it has been established that this type accounts for approximately 9% of all that are diagnosed. If an individual has this type of brain tumor, they are likely to experience symptoms such as a loss of hearing, dizziness, paralysis in the face area, and even loss of sensation or feeling in the face.

CNS Lymphoma

Individuals that have immune systems that are in a state of malfunction may develop a CNS lymphoma brain tumor. However, individuals that have properly function immune systems have been found to suffer from these types of tumors as well. Typically, these tumors will invade the cerebral hemispheres.

If an individual is suffering from this type of brain tumor, they are likely to experience symptoms such as memory loss, weakness that occurs on at least one side of the body, become easily confused, fatigue, and even seizures. Surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and even chemotherapy are considered to be appropriate treatments for those suffering from these types of abnormal growths.

Glioblastoma Multiforme

When it comes to difficult tumors, the glioblastoma multiforme or GBM is considered to be the one. This type of brain tumor is also considered to be one of the most dangerous in that it has such a high level of malignancy. Statistically, this particular brain tumor is considered to be the most common among adults that are considered to be middle-aged.

This tumor accounts for 30% of all cases. There are tumors that are considered to be a mix of many different cells. When researching this particular tumor, medical professionals have established that it has the absolute highest level of mixture. It is referred to as being "Heterogeneous" for this reason.

Conclusion

If you have been diagnosed with a brain tumor, it is important to learn as much as you possibly can about it. Here, you have been introduced to the most common types of brain tumors. There are many, many more types.

You should focus on the cause of the tumor, how quickly it spreads, the area of the brain that it affects, the symptoms that you may experience, the treatment for the tumor as well as the prognosis. If you have any questions, be certain to direct them to a medical professional.

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Author: Anne Ahira, CEO of Asian Brain Company

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Original article

Metastatic Brain Tumors at a Glance

Most individuals that suffer from brain tumors have metastatic brain tumors. When it comes to brain tumor diagnoses, this is the most common type of brain tumor identified in patients. When an individual suffers from this type of tumor, it means that it is a type of cancer that has developed in the brain that has originated from another region of the body.

There are many different types of cancers that a person may acquire that have the capability of spreading to the brain region. Cancers that affect the lungs, the kidneys, the breasts, the bladder, and other areas of the body may result in the onset of metastatic brain cancer.

Symptoms

There are many symptoms that may develop when an individual develops a metastatic brain tumor. These symptoms come as a result of the fact that tumors have the capability of destroying cells in the brain, the inflammation that typically occurs with tumors, and the pressure that the tumor may cause as it grows.

The symptoms that are experienced are typically unique to the individual that experiences them. No two patients typically have the same symptoms. The following represents the symptoms that may be experienced when a patient has a metastatic brain tumor:

• It is quite common for individuals to experience complications when it comes to basic coordination. It is not at all unusual for a person to appear to be quite clumsy, to drop things that they are carrying, or to fall. Weakness in various areas of the body is also quite common when it comes to the physical complications associated with brain tumors.

• Emotional changes are quite common when it comes to those that have brain tumors. These changes usually occur quite rapidly and the person may exhibit an entirely different personality than they normally exhibit.

• For most people that suffer from any type of brain tumor, headaches are common. These may be mild, moderate, or severe.

• Cognitive changes and complications are quite common among those that experience a metastatic brain cancer. These may include the inability to retain information as well as they used to, a general form of memory loss, judgment that is impaired, and even complications associated with numbers and basic complications.

• Many patients will start to experience seizures. When seizures are experienced, it is typically a new issue for those that have a tumor.

• Complications with both the vision and the speech are relatively common among patients with this common tumor type.

• Many will experience a general feeling of malaise that may or may not be accompanied by a low grade to moderate fever when they experience a metastatic brain tumor.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many challenges for the individual that suffers from a metastatic brain tumor. This is the most common type of tumor that an individual may suffer from. Since doctors deal with this tumor type on a regular basis, there are many treatments available that may assist in eliminating the tumor and/or reducing it in size so that the symptoms are reduced and the patient is more comfortable overall.

If you are diagnosed with this condition, be certain to work closely with a medical doctor in order to ensure that you have the opportunity of improving your quality of life by reducing symptoms.

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About the Author: Anne Ahira is an established entrepreneur and successful coach in her country of Indonesia. Her success story has been published in many nationwide publications in Indonesia.

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Original article

Knowledge Is Power For Parents Of Children With Brain Cancer Or Spinal Cord Tumors

As parents, the ultimate dream we have for our children is that their childhoods will be happy ones, and they will grow up to lead long and healthy lives. Yet, every day, across America, there will be nine families whose dreams will be shattered when they learn that their child has a spinal cord tumor or some form of brain cancer. And, by the end of the year, over 3,000 families will have faced that same moment; when time stood still, the world blurred, and their lives changed forever.

From the moment their child is diagnosed, parents embark on a journey that will challenge every aspect of their being - from intellectual and physical, to mental, emotional and spiritual. It is essential that these parents have a strong support network, with family and friends taking on a vital role in that network. Along with that key component, parents also need a structured system that can provide resources to help them navigate the many challenges they will face, and assist them in making the best possible decisions for their child's health and well-being.

Once past the initial shock of the diagnosis, parents begin searching for answers to the flood of questions rushing through their minds. Knowledge is power, and early education about this disease can provide a lifeline in these dark waters.

There are several good sources for information on pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer, all of which can provide resources for education, assistance and support--

• Family doctors and pediatricians;
• Children's hospitals and cancer treatment facilities; and
• Nonprofit organizations focused on pediatric brain cancer.

Here are just a few examples of what a parent might find within the FAQ sections of these organizations:

Q: What are the causes of pediatric brain cancer and spinal cord tumors?
A: There are many different kinds of pediatric brain cancer, and their precise causes are still unknown, although research programs are making advancements towards understanding the causes, as well as improving treatments.

Q: What is the prognosis for most young patients with this disease?
A: Current statistics show that one in three patients will survive no more than five years. However, thanks to the progress that has been made in research over the past twenty years, there has been a significant decline in the overall cancer death rates, and it is estimated that there are 25,000 brain tumor survivors in the U.S. today.

Q: What are the treatment options for a child with a brain tumor or brain cancer?
A: Treatment of brain or spinal cord tumors includes surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, depending on the type, rate of growth and location of tumors. It usually begins with surgical resection to remove all or part of the tumor. Although complete removal of the tumor (gross total resection) is often the treatment of choice, partial removal of the tumor will occasionally relieve a child's symptoms.

For parents who find themselves facing this life-altering journey, help is available in many forms, and from several well-respected organizations. Whether the need involves education about this dreadful disease, finding sources for medical or financial assistance, or simply connecting with others in similar situations, the resources are available. Reaching out to one of these organizations can often make the difference in how this journey is traveled-by the parents, and by the patient.

This article was written by Joe Fay, Executive Director of the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.cbtf.org/. Contact Joe Fay at jfay@cbtf.org or 800-228-4673. This article is free to be reprinted as long as the bio remains intact.

Original article

Health Benefits of Coffee and Tea Include Protection Against Brain Tumors

Good news for the coffee and tea drinkers among us. A new study suggests that the benefits of coffee and tea might include a lower chance of developing the most common type of malignant brain tumors. The findings are the result of a study of over half a million European adults and add weight to recent U.S. work that linked higher coffee and tea intake to a lower risk of gliomas, a type of tumor that accounts for almost 80% of malignant brain cancers in adults.

The findings come from an ongoing study looking at potential risk factors for cancer in ten European countries. At the start, 521,488 adults between 25 and 70 years old filled out detailed questionnaires on their diet, exercise habits, smoking status and other lifestyle factors as well as their complete medical history. For this particular analysis, the team centered on just over 400,000 participants who were free of cancer and also had supplied complete dietary information.

Over 8 and half years of follow up, 343 of the subjects were diagnosed with glioma; a further 245 were diagnosed with a normally benign type of brain tumor known as meningioma.

Things got interesting when the researchers grouped subjects by coffee/tea intake and then looked at two groups in particular.

One group averaged at least 3.5 ounces of coffee/tea per day, the other drank less than this amount, or none at all. The heavier coffee/tea drinkers were a third less likely to be diagnosed with glioma, even after factors like age and smoking history were taken into account. There was no connection with meningioma risk.

The thing is, there was no dose response association (if you drank more you got better protection), generally considered a stronger indication of cause-and-effect. The difficulty could come from the problems involved in accurately measuring how much coffee or tea the study subjects actually drank.

Of course, these findings, no matter how promising, do not mean that these two beverages themselves bring the protection. It's still too early to be sure.

It is biologically possible that coffee or tea could affect the risk of glioma. A recent study in the lab showed that caffeine appears to slow down the development of glioblastoma, a type of glioma.

We also know that both coffee and tea have antioxidants that are known to help protect cells from damage that leads to cancer and other diseases. It may just be that those who drink these beverages have other characteristics that could impact the likelihood they develop glioma.

Brain tumors are not very common, and in Europe the annual rates are estimated at 4 to 6 cases for every 100,000 women and 6 to 8 cases for every 100,000 men. The odds that you will develop a cancerous brain tumor in your lifetime are actually less than 1%. Researchers have also identified some risks - radiation therapy (most commonly of the head) or genetic predisposition are considered likely. As are being male, white and over 70 years old. Findings on links with brain tumors and diet or chemical exposure remain inconclusive.

Research on cell phones continues as well, though so far no study has found an increase risk of brain tumors among users.

If you're concerned about your own risk or want to learn more about the benefits of coffee and tea, talk with your doctor to learn things you might to do to help yourself stay healthy, as well as plan checkups going forward. Being proactive, and staying informed is important.

FREE Bonus Secret Health Reports - For a limited time you can grab 5 FREE essential health reports from Daily Health Bulletin and click the link now to discover more health benefits of coffee and tea and other dietary measures in the fight against cancer.

Original article

Support Programs Are Vital To Families Of Children With Brain Tumors And Brain Cancer

When a child is diagnosed with a brain tumor or brain cancer, the initial impact that news has on the family is simply overwhelming. This is a crucial time for the patient, parents and families, as well as friends. Time is often of the essence; quick decisions and fast actions are typically required, and, in a split second, lives are changed forever.

Thus begins a journey down a very long and difficult road. Where do parents go for information? Who do they turn to for support? How will they know what's best for their child? It's imperative that these families have resources available to them to assist them in making the critical decisions that they now face.

Thankfully, there are a number of exceptional family support and outreach programs sponsored by nonprofit organizations focusing on children's brain tumors and brain cancer. These programs provide valuable resources for education, assistance and support. While there are many reasons for parents of children with brain tumors to connect with a support group, three of the primary reasons are discussed below.

Education

One of the first questions asked by parents of children newly diagnosed with brain tumors and brain cancer is "What does this mean for my child?"

Family support and outreach programs can answer this and countless other questions by providing resources for general awareness of the disease, treatment options, and even facilities equipped to provide the best treatments available. Support programs can also help families stay abreast of the latest research that's being done with regard to treatments, survivorship, and long-term effects for the survivors of this deadly disease.

Assistance

Assistance for families taking this difficult journey can come in a variety of forms. It may involve locating the right doctors and facilities to care for their child, or perhaps, working through the maze of insurance forms and red tape. Researching options for financial aid, or finding local resources for supplies or services that might be needed for the child's care and recovery are also ways in which these support groups can offer help to these families.

In addition to the assistance provided to individual families, these nonprofit organizations work tirelessly on promoting and servicing the overall mission - finding better treatments for kids suffering from brain tumors and brain cancer, and improving the quality of life for survivors.

Support

Above all else, the parents and loved ones of these kids need emotional support. They need to belong to a community of people who are traveling the same, long road that they find themselves on. They need to know that they are not alone in their journey.

The emotional support that is given so freely in these family outreach programs cannot be found anywhere outside these unique groups of fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers. Who can better understand the grief a mother feels when she learns that her instincts about her child's health were right? Or the sorrow that consumes a father when he finally allows himself to cry, alone in the shower? And who better to share the joy when a family transitions to survivorship?

These family support groups offer not only support for parents and extended families, but for the patients, as well. Understanding the toll that this dreadful journey takes on all, most support groups sponsor a variety of conferences, camps, and other events throughout the year as a respite to the families. These events provide opportunities to connect with others in this unique community, while also gaining insight into educational and vocational opportunities.

Being very much aware of the needs of bereaved families, and families of survivors, as well, there are also support groups that are geared specifically to their needs. Some of these groups have mentors; parents who have stood in the same shoes, who work with families in a number of ways as they move through the difficult transitions.

Education. Assistance. Support. Connecting with the right support group is essential for parents and families facing this difficult journey. Parents, you are not alone. Help is out there, waiting for your call.

This article was written by Joe Fay, Executive Director of the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.cbtf.org/. Contact Joe Fay at jfay@cbtf.org or 800-228-4673. This article is free to be reprinted as long as the bio remains intact.

Original article

Pediatric Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer Alter the Definition of Normal

For most of us, today will begin like any other day. We'll sip our coffee, skim the morning paper, drop the kids off at school, and perform the normal rituals that make up our daily lives. The good, the bad, and yes, even the somewhat ugly; we'll tackle it all with confidence and a sense of comfort, knowing that tomorrow, as routine as it may be, we'll get to do it all over again.

But, for several families across America, today will be different. Today will be life-changing.

Today...

• Nine families will learn their child has a brain or spinal cord tumor;
• Three families will mourn the loss of their child to this dreadful disease; and
• Six families will transition to survivorship.

Each year, an estimated 3,400 children in the United States are diagnosed with a brain tumor or brain cancer. Approximately one-third of these children will survive no more than five years, making this the deadliest of all childhood cancers. For the families of these kids, there will never be another "normal" day. Their days will now be filled with medical appointments, treatment options, and learning how to operate within a new definition of "normal."

Thankfully, hope springs eternal. The survival rate for children with brain tumors and brain cancer has increased significantly over the past twenty years. Advancements in research have resulted in better treatment methods, improvements in the quality of life and the long-term outlook for these young patients. However, survival does bring with it an all-new set of unique challenges. Treatments can cause damaging late effects on survivors; effects that range from cognitive impairment, to physical challenges, to social isolation.

Collaborations between nonprofit organizations, research foundations and leading medical institutions have proven to be instrumental in the fight against these childhood cancers. By joining forces, these groups are able to connect the best of the best to keep research moving forward, raise public awareness, and provide support to the patients and families who need it.

Several non-profit organizations have been established over the years to provide help to families who find themselves on this new and very difficult life path. Most of these groups offer resources for education, assistance with medical and financial services, and much-needed emotional support through a variety of family outreach programs and special events.

These nonprofit organizations work tirelessly in their battle to make pediatric brain tumors and brain cancers a disease of the past. They are continually searching for research partners, corporate sponsors, and private foundations to help support ongoing research. Individual donations are also critical to the success of these organizations. While much work is being done, and progress is being made, the need to raise awareness, fund research, and provide support is ongoing.

A quick Internet search and a few simple clicks of the mouse will land you on the website of one of these dedicated, nonprofit organizations. Once there, you'll likely find an abundance of valuable information, along with resources and opportunities to help. Why not spend a little time today learning more about this devastating disease? Perhaps, make a donation, or even sign on as a volunteer. Not only can you help to redefine "normal" for these kids and their families; you might just alter your own idea of "normal" as well.

This article was written by Joe Fay, Executive Director of the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.cbtf.org/. Contact Joe Fay at jfay@cbtf.org or 800-228-4673. This article is free to be reprinted as long as the bio remains intact.

Original article

Skull Base Tumors: Treatment Options

Head and neck tumors touching or even extending through the skull base require intervention by a multidisciplinary team of skull base surgeons, head and neck surgeons, neuroradiologists, and oncologists. Many tumors previously considered inoperable can now be treated using endoscopic and microsurgical techniques, which markedly reduce mortality and morbidity rates. Tumors forming in the orbit, paranasal sinuses, and base of the skull on which the brain sits, rest in sensitive areas that demand expertise and skill to avoid serious damage and disfiguring scars.

Generally, surgery poses the greatest benefits for patients with skull base tumors, especially for benign lesions. Often, physicians treat malignant tumors with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Radiation, including radiosurgery or brachytherapy, helps preserve a patient's basic mental and motor functions over longer intervals than does standard radiotherapy. Physicians generally reserve chemotherapy for patients with inoperable tumors. Many postoperative patients require a period of rehabilitation therapy due to the sensitive nature of these tumors.

Serious skull base cancers often necessitate surgical removal, but the presence of critical neurovascular structures often limits surgical options. Specialized surgeons must identify and preserve these vital structures and often embrace multiple surgical approaches, such as transcranial-subtemporal, transochlear, anterior transpetrosal, tranmaxillary, and postauricular incisions. Should surgery prove initially impossible, a combination of radiation and chemotherapy may allow a surgeon to intervene at a later time.

Due to the complex relationships of these tumors to important brain and vascular structures, surgeons experienced in skull base approaches and techniques invariably have the best reported results.

Dr. Arthur Day [http://www.drarthurdayneurosurgeon.net] formerly served as Professor and Vice Chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Texas Houston, Director of the Cerebrovascular Center at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School.

Original article

Loss and Bereavement: The Support Services for Families With Children With Brain Tumors

There are many thoughts that run through a person's mind when they learn that their child or sibling has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. What will my child's life and my life be like now? How will this affect me? How will our family survive such a trauma? These and a million other questions come to mind when your child is diagnosed with a brain tumor. Many parents and children feel grief towards a life that was lost and these feelings can occur whether or not there was a death. The life you were planning for yourself or your child may no longer be possible and you have to cope with all of these new feelings while still managing day to day life, a daunting task.

Perhaps more devastating is the actual loss of a child. This experience is heart breaking and life altering for parents, siblings, other family members and friends, as it does not follow the proper course of life. The process of grief differs from person to person. Grief is a very subjective emotion and depending on the age and the relationship a person had with the child, their reaction to the loss will take on a variety of forms. For many, however, it is a long and painful journey, and it causes some to feel alone and forgotten by others who go on with their lives.

There are many new emotions and unexpected feelings that accompany the loss of a child such as, anger, guilt, abandonment, depression, etc. Though there is no way to completely quell all the feelings that occur with losing a child, there are support services and networks of other parents to help you cope with such a tragic loss. The support you can receive from others also dealing with a loss helps you understand that you are not alone and many, if not all, of the feelings you may be having are normal, in a way and this type of support is immeasurable.

Many are not aware of the different avenues you can take when seeking support. The social workers at many organizations are available to help you determine what services will be the most appropriate in helping you and your family manage all of the psychological and emotional difficulties that are associated with losing a child.

"The feeling of connecting to other parents is that sense of knowing that you are not alone." -quote from a bereaved parent

These organizations typically offer many programs including a Loss, Grief and Bereavement Program for families who have lost a child. Their goal is to support families through this difficult experience by connecting them to other bereaved families, providing supportive services, and offering therapeutic and educational information. We know everyone has his or her own unique way of grieving. It is for this reason that we offer different forms of support to address varying needs and ages.

Through interaction with bereaved parents, as well as siblings, we have developed a variety of services within our Loss, Grief, and Bereavement program that will attend to a wide range of families all coping in their own way.

Services include a parent mentor program, online support groups and discussions for parents and caregivers, bereaved sibling support, counseling, and referrals to a variety of grief and bereavement resources. The families who participate in our programs provide us with vital information so we can better assist future families. It is a horrible thing to lose a child and there is no way to ever heal such a wound but the goal of many organizations is to provide the best support possible for families.

Joseph Fay, Executive Director, Children's Brain Tumor Foundation

Original article

Pediatric Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer - Funding Is Key for Research and Support

Every day, across America, people are talking about the progress being made in medical research, or the support provided to patients and families affected by a devastating disease or illness. One thing that often gets lost in these conversations is the issue of money. Research can only move forward if there's funding to support it. Nonprofit organizations and other support groups operate primarily from donations; and even fundraising activities require a budget of some sort. None of these can happen without money.

And, somewhere out there, right now, a group of parents is having that very conversation about the deadliest of all childhood cancers-pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer. What's the latest in research? What kind of support is out there for the kids and families? Why isn't more being done, and faster? It is the mission of the nonprofit organizations that support this worthwhile cause to provide answers to these questions, and they understand that the answers come through proper funding.

Research

Research on the causes and cures of pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer is ongoing, but often progresses at a slower rate than desired. There have, however, been some recent successes in this area of research, including the creation of a tissue consortium, and the publishing of a major study of medulloblastoma, a type of brain tumor typically found in children. ("The Genetic Landscape of the Childhood Cancer Medulloblastoma"; Science, published online Dec. 16, 2010.)

Support

Through a variety of programs and services, most nonprofit organizations work to meet the needs of these young patients and their families. Services such as support groups and various family events, as well as assistance with a variety of issues relating to care, treatment, and financial aid give these families the sense that they are not alone on this difficult journey.

Awareness and Education

Anyone who owns or operates a business understands the necessity of marketing. Awareness of the product or services offered is critical to the success of that business. Of course, successful marketing requires a sufficient source of funds to "get the word out."

In that sense, nonprofit organizations are no different than any other business. In order to promote awareness of pediatric brain tumors and brain cancer, there must be a solid marketing plan in place. How else will the average person learn that every day, across this country...

• Nine families will learn their child has a brain or spinal cord tumor;
• Three families will mourn the loss of their child to a brain or spinal cord tumor; and
• Six families will transition to survivorship.

Funding for the ongoing research and essential services provided by the nonprofit groups comes primarily from a mix of events, direct response, online fundraising, and major and planned gift solicitation. For the most part, events constitute the predominant source of funds to back these activities.

With adequate funding, progress can continue that will improve the treatment, quality of life and long-term outcomes for children with brain and spinal cord tumors.

How does the old saying go? "No gift is too small; no kind gesture goes unnoticed." Contact a nonprofit organization today to find out how you can help in the fight against pediatric brain tumors and brain cancers.

This article was written by Joe Fay, Executive Director of the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.cbtf.org/. Contact Joe Fay at jfay@cbtf.org or 800-228-4673. This article is free to be reprinted as long as the bio remains intact.

Original article