Understanding The Various Brain Tumor Causes

Getting familiar with various brain tumour causes can help us to bring down the risks of the same. With over 120 different types, brain tumour is one of the most serious medical conditions known to mankind. Although not all of these are necessarily life-threatening, most can prove to be debilitating without proper medical care. Fortunately, the risks of brain tumours can be alleviated by simple lifestyle modifications and adhering to some preventive measures. However, this is possible only if we understand the different causes that can increase one’s chances of developing brain tumours and focus on curbing the same. In this blog, we have elaborated on some of the major factors that can add to the risks of developing brain tumours with the help of experts from the best brain tumour hospital in Delhi.

What are Brain Tumours?

A result of abnormal genetic mutations that lead to the uncontrolled growth and development of cells in a particular part of the brain, brain tumours are solid masses that can either be benign or malignant. Anyone can develop a brain tumour, even small children, however, the incidence tends to be higher in adults. In fact, more than 81 per cent of all primary brain tumours are reported in adults. The underlying cause of a brain tumour is quite hard to pinpoint, but there are some known risk factors that shouldn’t be overlooked.

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Exploring Various Brain Tumour Causes 

• Age & sex- The likelihood of developing certain brain tumours may increase or decrease with advancing age. While some of these, like medulloblastomas, are more common in kids, others, like gliomas, are generally seen in adults. Just like age, sex may also be considered as a crucial factor. Experts from the best brain tumour hospital in Delhi suggest that the incidence of brain tumours is higher in men as compared to women. 
• Genes - It has been found that nearly 5 per cent of the tumours that develop within the brain are because of underlying genetic factors. Genetic conditions like neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis have been linked with elevated risks of developing these. 
• Toxic Exposure - We are exposed to countless chemicals and toxins regularly without even realizing it. Experts suggest that overexposure to these toxic substances, which include harmful industrial solvents, pesticides and rubber can increase one’s chances of developing brain tumours.
• Strong electromagnetic fields- Long-term exposure to strong electromagnetic fields might be linked with the increased risks of brain tumours. Although there’s no strong link to back it up yet, research is still going on in this direction and meanwhile, the World Health Organization has also recommended people, including children, to limit the use of cell phones and rather use hands-free headsets. 
• Certain Infections and Allergies - Some infections that involve the central nervous system can increase the risks of certain tumours. For instance, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), has been linked to higher rates of CNS lymphoma. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is another virus that has been linked to higher risks of brain tumours. Research is still going on to determine the role of other infections in elevating the risks of brain tumours. Surprisingly, it has been seen that people people who are more prone to allergies are less likely to develop brain tumours. 
• Trauma to the Head - The link between traumatic head injuries and brain tumours has long been a topic of research and many studies have indicated that there is a link between head trauma and meningioma. Not only this, seizures, too, have been associated with a high likelihood of developing brain tumours. It is, however, pertinent to understand that seizures may be caused by brain tumours, so it is quite possible that one may be experiencing seizures as a symptom of brain tumour. It is advisable to get yourself evaluated at the earliest to be sure. 

These brain tumour causes may not necessarily lead to the development of brain tumours, but, it is always better to be on the safer side and seek proper medical guidance if you can relate to any of these. Some Treatments that can help you win the fight against brain tumours. To know more about these treatments Speak with the best brain tumor surgeons in Delhi at IBS Hospital to learn more about these procedures and determine if they are a good fit for you

By -Dr Aaksha Shukla | October 19, 2023 | 9 Min Read