A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain or central spine, which can disrupt normal brain function. There are two main types of tumours: malignant and benign (non-malignant). Symptoms of brain tumours can include early morning headaches, nausea and vomiting, behavioural and cognitive changes, dizziness or unsteadiness, speech problems, vision and hearing impairment, seizures, and weakness or paralysis. Despite these symptoms, brain tumours are often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to unnecessary fear and confusion.

Hence, to debunk myths, we got in touch with Dr Samir Kale, Consultant Neurosurgeon (Brain and Spine), Medicover Hospitals, Navi Mumbai who debunks myths and shares facts linked to brain tumours.

Myth 1: All Brain Tumours Are Cancerous

Fact: This is a myth! Not all tumours can be cancerous as some are benign (non-malignant) tumours and can be treated by surgery.

Myth 2: Brain Tumour Is Common In Older Population

Fact: Brain tumours can be seen in anyone irrespective of age. Unfortunately, newborns have also been found to have a brain tumour.

Myth 3: Brain Tumours Are Only Seen In Those Who Have A Family History

Fact: There is no evidence in the form of a study or research to prove that people who have family members with brain tumours are more likely to get it.

Myth 4: Lifestyle Modifications Can Help To Keep Brain Tumours At Bay

Fact: One’s lifestyle does not cause brain tumours. So, lifestyle modifications cannot prevent brain tumours. Daily exercise, a balanced diet that is high in fibre, and staying away from chewing tobacco, smoking, and alcohol can help to improve overall well-being. However, it is not known whether these lifestyle changes are beneficial for preventing brain tumours.

Myth 5: Everyone With A Brain Tumour Will Exhibit The Same Signs And Symptoms

Fact: Every individual diagnosed with a brain tumour will display different symptoms based on the size, site, and grade of the tumour.

Myth 6: Hair Colouring Causes Brain Tumour

Fact: There are no studies available to show the connection between hair colour or dye and the development of brain tumours.

Myth 7: Artificial Sweeteners Lead To Brain Tumours

Fact: Higher intake of artificial sweeteners is known to cause intestinal and abdominal cancers and not brain tumours.

Myth 8: Brain Tumours Are Contagious

Fact: This is a false statement. Brain tumours are not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

Myth 9: Brain Tumour Results In Death

Fact: Not all brain tumours are fatal. The prognosis depends on tumour type, location, size, and a person’s overall health. Many tumours can be successfully managed with prompt intervention.

Myth 10: Brain Surgery Will Lead To Cognitive Impairment

Fact: Currently, due to the advancement in technology, timely brain surgery will reduce the risk of cognitive impairment and improve the quality of life of the patient. One should not fret or panic as the neurosurgeon takes enough care and ensures to preserve the brain function during tumour extraction.

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