On the eve of World Brain Tumour Day (June 8), doctors in Hyderabad have sounded an alarm over the rising cases of brain tumour, and urged the public to recognise early symptoms and seek diagnosis and treatment.

With over 40,000 new cases reported in India each year, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), medical experts say that delayed detection affects the outcome.

Brain tumours, which can be benign or malignant, often begin with symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, memory loss, limb weakness, or vision and speech disturbances. Despite the slow onset, the condition can escalate quickly, turning into a life-threatening emergency, say doctors.

Power of 3’ campaign

Care Hospitals is reinforcing its commitment to neurological emergency response through its ‘Power of 3’ campaign, a pledge that ensures emergency calls are answered within three rings, ambulances are dispatched within 30 minutes, and patients receive immediate ER attention. “In neurological cases like brain tumours, every minute counts. Our campaign is not just about awareness but delivering timely, and expert care,” said Dr. Arun Reddy, Senior Neurosurgeon.

As part of its campaign, Care Hospitals is focusing on symptom literacy, highlighting on warning signs like imbalance, seizures, or sudden memory issues that must not be ignored.

20% increase

Olive Hospital doctors say they have noticed a 20% increase in brain tumour consultations over the last one year. “Brain tumours are deceptive. Symptoms may appear ordinary, like a nagging headache but they could be signs of something far more serious. Early detection improves both survival and quality of life,” said Dr. Mohammed Mahmood Ali, Senior Neurologist.

Breakthroughs in treatment

Parallelly, doctors are optimistic about the breakthroughs in brain tumour treatment. “We are witnessing a revolution in brain tumour care. Advanced neuro-navigation, intraoperative imaging, stereotactic radiosurgery, and robotic-assisted interventions are now standard practices. Precision medicine, including targeted therapies and FDA-approved drugs like vorasidenib for low-grade gliomas, is also changing outcomes,” said Dr. V. Naveen Reddy, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Renova Hospitals.

Emerging strategies like immunotherapy, Tumour Treating Fields (TTFields), and even experimental mRNA vaccines are offering new hope. At the same time, Artificial Intelligence is being explored to assist with early, non-invasive diagnosis and treatment planning, he added.

Source: The Hindu