Experiencing severe headaches along with nausea and vomiting? These symptoms could indicate the presence of glioblastoma, an aggressive type of brain cancer.
While breast, lung, and skin cancers are often more commonly discussed, glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme, is a rare tumor with fewer than 10 cases per 100,000 individuals worldwide, according to a 2017 study published by the National Library of Medicine. Despite its rarity, glioblastoma is a disease that should not be overlooked. It is classified as a grade IV cancer by the World Health Organization and requires attention.
To shed more light on this aggressive form of brain cancer, Health Shots spoke with Neurologist Dr. Pradyumna J. Oak.
Dr. Pradyumna explains that glioblastoma is a fast-growing brain cancer that originates from glial cells, which support and protect neurons. The causes of glioblastoma are still not fully understood, but a combination of environmental and genetic factors play a role. In India, brain tumor cases represent around 2% of all cancer cases, with glioblastoma accounting for a significant portion of these cases.
Symptoms of glioblastoma can vary depending on the size, location, and growth rate of the tumor. Common signs include severe headaches, seizures, physical weakness or numbness, cognitive changes, nausea, and vomiting.
Glioblastoma has a challenging prognosis, with an average survival period of 15-16 months with standard treatment. Roughly 30% of patients survive up to two years. While there is no definitive cure for glioblastoma, treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Navigating the diagnosis and treatment of glioblastoma can be difficult, but knowledge is key to empowerment when it comes to managing health issues.