We all know the function of brain. It is the main control center of our body that monitors/instructs everything thing in our body. Any disease that affects this central control system is really a big problem. And the worst thing to happen is brain cancer. Brain cancer is the development of brain tumors i.e. tumors in the brain. These could either be benign or malignant; the latter being the really harmful one.

Types of brain cancer

As most other types of cancer, brain cancer is also classified as primary brain cancer and secondary brain cancer. Primary brain cancer is the one that originates from the brain itself i.e. that originates in the brain cells. Secondary brain cancers is the one that doesn't originate from the brain cells but is instead passed on from another organ/ part of the body

Causes of brain cancer

As is the case with many other types of cancer, the causes of brain cancer is a big topic for researchers. However, certain genetic conditions and exposure of head to radiation (as received during radiotherapy as part of treatment of other conditions) are known to be causes of cancer. There are a number of other theories that keep coming up time and again, each suggesting different possible causes of brain tumor (one famous one is about mobile phones causing brain cancer). However, there really isn't a very convincing theory about what causes brain cancer.

Symptoms of brain cancer

Some very common symptoms of brain cancer are headaches and nausea; but these can really be caused by something else. So, headache and nausea shouldn't really be taken as brain cancer. Some other symptoms of brain cancer are related to incorrect working of some of the basic senses (that are mainly governed by brain) e.g. speech, vision and smell etc. Again, there is no point in getting worried all by yourself; you should, in any case, consult a qualified doctor and let them know clearly about the various symptoms that you have observed. The doctor can then diagnose whether it is brain cancer. You might be referred to a neurologist for further examination (if brain cancer is suspected).

Diagnosis and treatment of brain cancer

The diagnosis of brain cancer will include tests that are based on the working of the nervous system. So, testing of basic human senses like vision, speech, hearing, mental capability, reflexes is taken up for diagnosis of brain cancer. The treatment of brain cancer is done through surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy (and the combination of these).

Everyone fears the word cancer. However most types of cancers can be beaten, if you catch it up soon enough, and even if you don't there are new treatments coming out by the minute everyday that will help you fight and successfully beat cancer. There are however some types of cancers that are more complex in nature than others, brain cancer is the one we're speaking of and the one we will be focusing on.

Two types of known brain cancer exist, namely: Primary brain cancer (these generally initiate in the brain), Primary brain cancer almost never moves to any other part of the body, so death is brought on by uncontrollable tumor growth within the brain cavity. Then you get metastatic brain cancer or otherwise known as secondary brain cancer (this type of cancer originates in other parts of the body and get transported or should we say it migrates to the brain thus causing the person to circum to secondary brain cancer.

In some cases the patient will not know they have brain cancer until its too late, so know what symptoms to look out for is vital when it comes to any type tumor or cancer.

However, before we go there, let's take a look at the know causes of brain cancer. The main known cause of brain cancer is the continuous contact with vinyl chloride. Then there are things like pipes, car parts, furniture, wire coatings, and other house wares that contain a substance called carcinogen. Patients who suffer from a long standing battle with melanoma, colon cancer, breast cancer, kidney cancer, and lung cancer are all at risk of being or getting secondary brain cancer.

If you think that you might have brain cancer here are some things to look out for, be sure to do a check regularly and please get yourself to a doctor for a detailed check at least once every three months (or as directed by your doctor). A brain tumor has the tendency to obstruct the flow or the brains cerebral fluids, or cerebrosinal fluid (this have the devastating result of the buildup hydrocephalus and can thus increase intercranial pressure, which leads to vomiting, nausea and sever headaches.

Brain cancer also leads to impaired judgment, memory loss, reduced mind capacity, vision loss; sever behavior changes, swelling of the optic nerve and impaired smell sense. If you suffer from any of these get yourself to a trained doctor immediately.

Darren Dunner is the author of this article on Brain Cancer. Currently writing on http://www.polymva.com , Visit today http://www.polymva.com for more information on the subject.

Brain cancer is a tumor or tumors that form on the brain itself. Most brain tumors have spread to the brain from other affected parts of the body (such as the breast or the lung) via the blood-stream. Only a small percentage of brain cancer cases originate in the brain.

In its early stages, brain cancer often produces no symptoms, or it displays symptoms that are mistaken for everyday headaches. As a result, the condition is often quite advanced before it is detected. Brain cancer is a very serious condition that can cause extensive neurological damage or death.

The exact cause of brain cancer is unknown, but heredity is suspected to play a role in its development.

Signs and Symptoms

Brain cancer is usually asymptomatic until the tumor reaches a certain size. At that point, symptoms include:

• Persistent headaches
• Vomiting
• General weakness, or localized weakness in the arms or legs
• Loss of coordination
• Dizziness
• Change in personality
• Loss of mental abilities, including memory
• Double vision, or loss of vision
• Seizures

Conventional Medical Treatment

If you suspect you have a brain tumor, see a physician immediately. A CAT scan or MRI of the head can usually confirm the presence of a tumor and pinpoint its location. If a tumor is found, the physician may take a CAT scan of the chest and abdomen to make sure the cancer has not affected other areas of the body. If the tumor is localized and is situated in an area where removal is possible (on the outer surface of the brain, for example), surgery may be performed. However, some tumors-particularly those located deep within the brain tissue-cannot be operated on. In these cases, radiation and chemotherapy will be used to destroy cancerous cells. (See "Conventional Medical Treatment" in the "Bladder Cancer" entry for more information on radiation and chemotherapy.)

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupressure By pressing on certain acupressure points along the body's meridians, a practitioner may be able to reduce cancer-related pain and headaches.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Traditional Chinese Medicine considers any type of tumor formation the result of stagnant blood, so a practitioner may recommend formulas that energize blood flow and strengthen the immune system, such as Ginseng and Astragals Formula. In cases of brain cancer, an herbalist may prescribe the Chinese formula called Three Yellows.

Brain cancer is a disease of the brain where cancer cells (malignant) grow in the brain tissue. Cancer cells grow to form a mass of cancer tissue (tumor) that interferes with brain tissue functions such as muscle control, sensation, memory, and other normal body functions. Tumors composed of cancer cells are called malignant tumors, and those composed of noncancerous cells are called benign tumors. Cancer cells that develop from brain tissue are called primary brain tumors. Statistics suggest that brain cancer is not rare and is likely to develop in about 20,000 people per year.

There are two main types of brain cancer. Primary brain cancer starts in the brain. Metastatic brain cancer starts somewhere else in the body and moves to the brain. Brain tumors can be benign, with no cancer cells, or malignant, with cancer cells that grow quickly.

Primary brain cancer rarely spreads beyond the central nervous system, and death results from uncontrolled tumor growth within the limited space of the skull. Metastatic brain cancer indicates advanced disease and has a poor prognosis.

Metastatic brain tumors are made of cancerous cells from a tumor elsewhere in the body. The cells spread to the brain from another tumor in a process called metastasis. About 25% of tumors elsewhere in the body metastasize to the brain.

Symptoms of Brain Cancer

Brain tumors can damage vital neurological pathways and invade and compress brain tissue. Symptoms usually develop over time and their characteristics depend on the location and size of the tumor.

Cancers are typically painless at first. As they grow, the first symptom is often a mild discomfort, which may steadily worsen into increasingly severe pain as the cancer enlarges. The pain may result from the cancer compressing or eroding into nerves or other structures.

The symptoms are caused by the tumor pressing on or encroaching on other parts of your brain and keeping them from functioning normally.

A sign is also an indication that something is not right in the body. But signs are defined as things that can be seen by a doctor, nurse, or other health care professional. Fever, rapid breathing rate, and abnormal breathing sounds heard through a stethoscope may be signs of pneumonia.

As the skull is made of bone, there is a fixed amount of space for the brain to take up. The growing tumor increases the pressure inside this fixed space. This is called 'raised intracranial pressure'.

Motion sickness is a very common disturbance of the inner ear that is caused by repeated motion such as from the swell of the sea, the movement of a car, the motion of a plane in turbulent air, etc. In the inner ear (which is also called the labyrinth), motion sickness affects the sense of balance and equilibrium and, hence, the sense of spatial orientation.

Brain tumors can often present different symptoms depending on the location of the tumor. There are general brain tumor symptoms that need to be checked out by a doctor if they are experienced.

Fits are one of the commonest symptoms of brain tumors. About 1 in 4 people with a brain tumor first go to their doctor because they have had a fit. A fit can just be jerking or twitching of a hand, arm or leg.

At the late stages of the disorder, dramatic changes in blood pressure may occur. Seizures are a common symptom of benign brain tumors and slow-growing cancers. Tumors can cause a part of the body to weaken or feel paralyzed. Hearing, sight and the sense of smell can be affected.

Malignant brain tumors occur in about 4.5 people per 100,000 population, they may occur at any age but brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in patients younger than age 35. In adults, incidence is generally highest between ages 40 to 60.

There are two main types of brain cancer. Primary cancers start in the brain. Metastatic cancers start somewhere else in the body and moves to the brain. The most common tumor types in adults are gliomas and meningiomas. In children, incidence is generally highest before age 1 and again between ages 2 and 12. The most common types of brain tumour in children are astrocytomas, medulloblastomas, ependymomas and brain stem gliomas.

CAUSES
What causes brain carcinomas is not exactly known but there has recently been a great deal of speculation on the role of cell phone radiation in the development of cancer. In fact, while studies generally have shown no link between cell phones and brain cancer, there is some conflicting scientific evidence that may be worth additional study, according to the FDA.

More accepted risk factors include; exposure to vinyl chloride and individuals with risk factors such as having a job in an oil refinery, as a chemist, embalmer, or rubber industry worker show higher rates of brain cancer. Other risk factors such as smoking, radiation exposure, and viral infection (HIV) have been suggested but not proven to cause tumors. Patients with a history of melanoma, lung, breast, colon, or kidney cancer are at risk for secondary brain cancer.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Onset of symptoms is usually insidious and brain tumors are often misdiagnosed. The Cancers cause central nervous system changes by invading and destroying tissues and by secondary effects such as pressure on the brain. Symptoms vary but in general, symptoms include: Abnormal pulse and breathing rates, deep, dull headaches that recur often and persist without relief for long periods of time, difficulty walking or speaking, dizziness, eyesight problems including double vision, seizures, vomiting and at the late stages of the disorder dramatic changes in blood pressure may occur. Although headaches are often a symptom, it is important to remember that most headaches are due to less serious conditions such as migraine or tension, not cancer.

DIAGNOSIS
In most cases a definitive diagnosis is made by a tissue biopsy. Other diagnostic tools include; patient history, a neurologic assessment, skull x-rays, a brain scan, CT scan, MRI, a lumbar puncture and cerebral angiography. Meningiomas, arising from the covering around the brain or spinal cord, account for about 20% of brain cancers and are generally more benign.

TREATMENT
How to treat brain tumors depends on the age of the patient, the stage of the disease, the type and location of the tumor, and whether the cancer is a primary tumor or metastases. Brain cancer are somewhat unique because of the blood brain barrier, which severely restricts the types of substances in the bloodstream that are allowed by the body into the brain and makes drug treatment extremely difficult. Because of this more and more research is being undertaken in delivering medication by means of nanoparticles, amongst the properties of nanoparticles that make them ideal candidates for recognizing and treating tumors, their ability to deliver a wide variety of payloads across the blood-brain barrier is perhaps the most important.

The cancer's location and ability to spread quickly makes treatment with surgery or radiation like fighting an enemy hiding out among minefields and caves, and explains why the term brain cancer is all too often associated with the word inoperable.

Brain cancer survival statistics for the deadliest of tumors such as gliomas have not improved significantly over the past two decades and the clinical armamentarium is, to a large extent, still dependent on surgery and radiation therapy, treatments known to leave survivors with devastating cognitive deficits. Gamma knife surgery is a radiosurgery technique used to treat people with brain cancer and other neurological disorders

The most deadly forms may be treatable with a vaccine that uses proteins. Unlike measles or mumps vaccines, which are meant to prevent disease, the vaccine turns on the patient's own immune system so it will help kill the tumor. When the vaccine is injected, it stimulates the immune system to kill off brain cancer cells and prevent the regrowth of tumors that have already been treated.

PROGNOSIS
The chances of surviving for a person with a brain tumor: Prognosis greatly depends on all of the following: type of tumor extent of the disease size and location of the tumor presence or absence of metastasis the tumor's response to therapy, age, overall health, and medical history, tolerance of specific medications, procedures, or therapies. Metastatic brain cancer indicates advanced disease and has a poor prognosis. Unfortunately, the most common form of primary brain cancer, glioblastoma, is also the most aggressive and lethal but teratomas and other germ cell tumors although they have the capacity to grow very large may have a more favorable prognosis.

Dick Aronson has a background of over 35 years in various facets of the Healthcare industry. He now runs health sites, including http://www.life-wave-patches.com: http://www.healthinnovationsonline.com

Brain cancer accounts for about 1.4% of all cancer cases and about 2.4% of all cancer deaths. This may not seems like a lot but don't let the numbers fool you on the severity of brain cancer. Once the cancer turns malignant, the tumors grow aggressively and overpower the healthy cells taking up their space, blood and nutrients. This is an area of grave concern because the brain is the most important part of your body and controls everything. Whenever there is something wrong with your brain, it affects the entire body. Knowing what the brain cancer symptoms are and able to recognize these symptoms is incredibly important for our prognosis and survival from this deadly disease.

The biggest problem with brain cancer and brain tumors is that their symptoms are often nonspecific making it is very difficult to know if you have it or not, unless you are seriously looking for it. The most common symptoms of brain cancer are headaches, general weaknesses, difficulty in walking, clumsiness and seizures. Other more serious symptoms include difficulty with speech, abnormal vision, nausea, vomiting, quick emotional changes, and an altered mental state. An altered mental state can include changes in concentration, memory, intellectual capacity, attention and alertness.

Several different factors can cause these symptoms. Some of these symptoms are caused by the tumor pressing on different parts of the brain and impairing them from functioning properly. The symptoms can also be caused by the swelling of the brain, the tumor or the area around the tumor. Unfortunately, these brain cancer symptoms usually develop very slowly and gradually over time and this makes it really difficult for anyone to confirm the existence of this deadly disease. For instance, people often think that a headache is just a headache or that the dizziness felt is due to any other reasons except cancer. If these symptoms occur frequently and very rapidly, you should definitely visit your doctor to see what the problem is.

The doctors will often make you take a CT scan if they feel you have brain cancer. A CT scan is like an x-ray except in shows the brain in three-dimensions. A harmless dye is usually injected into your bloodstream to make abnormalities more visible in the CT scan. Other tests include blood tests, liver tests, urine tests and blood coagulation profiles. MRI scans are sometimes used instead of CT scans. The reason for this is because MRI has a better ability to assess the changes in a tumor.

Brain cancer is an incredibly serious form of cancer and it is important for us to know what these brain cancer symptoms are so that we can take necessary action to arrest the situation early. If you suspect you are suffering or are suffering from these symptoms, please consult your doctor early to ascertain your actual medical condition. If brain cancer is confirmed, discuss with your doctor for an appropriate course of treatment best suited for you. An early intervention increases your chances for an early recovery and a prolonged survival.

Lester Lee is the webmaster of www.Cancer-Tumor.info, an informative website that provides the latest advice, info and updates on Brain Cancer Symptoms. Visit our site today for more helpful info on Brain Cancer Symptoms and other similar topics.

Cancer is a degenerative disease that figuratively speaking eats at your organs, being diagnosed with cancer can be the most devastating news you will ever hear; today were going to review over how to prevent brain cancer.

Just like a car's engine, our brains are the core of our existence. Without the usage of your brain, you would be a vegetable, having no movement, thoughts, or impulses. When a cancerous tumor is present in your brain it impairs many body functions controlled by electric impulses that are sent from the brain. Many people, lose their mobility, speech, and are subject to multiple uncontrollable body movements.

There are preventive measures that you can take to prevent this devastating disease from claiming residency in your brain.

* Step 1- Explore your family history, find out what diseases run in your family. If cancer is prominent, be sure to let a doctor know about your cause for concern. Be sure to visit your doctor at least every 4-6 months for brain scans, if anyone in your family passed away over a problem in the brain.
* Step 2-Get healthy, healthier living promotes longer happier lives. Do not partake of any impurities such as smoking, or drinking alcohol. Exercise frequently and stay informed about any medical issues pertaining to brain cancer. Talk with a certified physician to obtain a full list on things you can do to prevent the cancerous tumors associated with brain cancer.
* Step 3- Use your cell phone with care. Studies have shown that people who regularly use their cell phones chances of getting a brain tumor, which can later on evolve into cancer is 240% higher then someone who stays off the phone. Cell phones give off radioactive waves which attack brain cells.
* Step 4-Educate yourself on brain cancer, know the causes and the symptoms, so if you feel that you may be suffering from a cancerous tumor you know the warning signs.

Brain cancer tumors may originate in the brain (primary site) or they may metastasize to the brain from another site. Prostate cancer, for example, may metastasize to the liver, the lung, the hip, and then to the brain. Metastasized brain tumors have a poor prognosis because of the already advanced state of the cancer.

The human brain anatomy is complex system responsible for many body functions. Injury that causes damage, traumatic experiences, or brain tumors can greatly alter one's life.

Cancerous tumors that form in the brain (primary) tend to stay within the brain and not branch out to other organs. Their growth can take up the space needed by the healthy brain and cause many conditions, including hearing loss and stroke. The ratio is about 50/50 regarding the occurrence of metastasized and primary brain tumors. The leading cause cancer related death in people in people younger than 35.

The most dangerous chemical in terms of causing this type of cancer is Vinyl Chloride. This is used 'all over' in plumbing, furniture, and house wares. This is presumed to be safe to use unless it is heated as in a microwave oven, which evaporates and drives the substance into the food being heated.

For this reason, always use glass or other microwave safe containers in the microwave oven. Don't burn plastic such as plastic wrapping and containers in a bon fire or fireplace. The smoke can be 'hazardous to your health'.

Typical Symptoms: Any impairment in hearing, sight, judgment, speech, cognitive skills such as reasoning or remembering, or stroke symptoms such as paralysis of one side of the body, inability to walk properly, can be symptomatic of a tumor in the brain.

The treatments are generally the same for other kinds of cancer and tumors. One innovative treatment is the use of the GLIADEL WAFER. These are packed into the space formerly occupied by the tumor and slowly release chemotherapy agents in order to destroy any cancer cells that may have not been removed. This has increased life expectancy for some kinds of brain tumors by fifty percent.

The most likely reason for asking about how to know if you have brain cancer is that the person or a loved one has experienced some symptoms that are suspected could (but hopefully not) be caused by brain cancer. There are many related questions that follow and this series is a result of research into the various aspects of the issue of brain cancer, including treatments and outcomes.

Research shows that there are areas of agreement as well as areas of disagreement amongst those that provide care and advice. Additionally, there are conflicting reports from brain cancer patients and family members of patients as to the value and effectiveness of both methods of diagnosis as well as treatment choices.

The most common symptoms are:
o headaches,
o weakness,
o nausea,
o clumsiness,
o difficulty walking,
o changes in speech,
o vision or hearing difficulties,
o twitching or seizures, and
o numbness or tingling in the arms or legs.

None of the symptoms are unique to brain cancer so they must be taken as indicators only. Also, symptom onset can be quite gradual and is often overlooked.

It is quite common for different medical organizations or practitioners to provide differing lists of the most common brain cancer symptoms. This appears, in part, to be due to the various parts of the brain that could be cancerous and thereby affecting the different parts of the body that are associated with the affected part of the brain.

The following are regarded as less common but possible symptoms:
o altered mental status,
o changes in concentration,
o impaired judgment, memory, attention, or alertness,
o gradual changes in intellectual or emotional capacity,
o impaired sense of smell,
o paralysis of one side of the face or body,
o drooping eyelid or crossed eyes,
o prolonged drowsiness,
o swelling,
o discontinuation of menstruation,
o excess secretion of milk in women, and
o impotence in men.

All research sources were quick to point out that symptoms are not a sure sign of cancer. When asking how to know if you have brain cancer it is important to know that other conditions could also cause these symptoms.

Addition articles in the series soon to be released include statistics, diagnostic choices, treatment choices, what questions should you ask your doctor, is it possible for a cancer patient to ever be cancer free, and patient testimonials (including miracle results).

I am a father of five and a grandfather of one. I am at an age where health issues have become relevant as cancer, Alzheimer, and a host of others have started affecting family and lifelong friends. An important link for those interested in answers is: [http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/] I am educated in journalism and computers and I have extensive background as an executive in the computer and telecomm industries. I have spent a career researching and data gathering for business purposes. I now apply those same skills in a search for effective solutions to health issues affecting my loved ones. I am sharing my discoveries. For the most interesting information I have found about cures/treatment, go to the following: http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/

The first step in diagnosis for how to know if you have brain cancer is to evaluate the individual's symptoms. If the symptoms show an indication of brain cancer, the tests done to confirm diagnosis include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, computed axial tomography (CAT or CT) scan, and positron emission tomography (PET) scan.

CAT scans are specialized x-ray tests combined with a computer that takes pictures of the inside of the brain and brain stem, allowing the doctor to look for tumors. The CAT scan differs from standard x-rays in that it utilizes a computer to accomplish a cross-sectional view that allows for a much more accurate look at the soft tissues of body parts like that of the brain. A dye is often injected into the body to improve the contrast between abnormal and healthy tissue. CAT scanners have been in use since the mid 1970s.

MRI scans use magnetic and radio waves to take pictures of the inside of the body. Like the CAT scan, it provides images of the soft tissues of the body allowing the doctor to look for abnormalities. As a tool it will take pictures from any angle which is promoted as an advantage over CAT scans by institutions that use the MRI as the primary method of diagnosis. MRI is a technique that has been in use since the 1980s.

PET scans are not nearly as commonly used by institutions for determining how to know if you have brain cancer. The technique has been in limited use since the 1950s. It requires the injection of a short-lived radioactive isotope into the body, which allows for imaging of the body tissues. It is often combined with CAT scanning for a broad picture.

Skull x-rays were widely used at one time but have generally been replaced by the above scan procedures. Different institutions will use one or another of the scans as the first diagnostic test.
Any tumor located would be followed by a biopsy of the tissue to arrive at an exact diagnosis. A biopsy is a surgical procedure whereby a small portion of the abnormal tissue is removed and sent to a lab where a doctor can then study is under a microscope. The type and characteristics of the cells can then be determined as to whether it is malignant, degree of invasiveness and growth rate.

I am a father of five and a grandfather of one. I am at an age where health issues have become relevant as cancer, alzheimers, and a host of others have started affecting family and lifelong friends.

I am educated in journalism and computers and I have extensive background as an executive in the computer and telecomm industries. I have spent a career researching and data gathering for business purposes. I now apply those same skills in a search for effective solutions to health issues affecting my loved ones.

I am sharing my discoveries.

An important link for those interested in treatment choices and cures is: http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/

When researching how to know if you have brain cancer, the question of likelihood gets asked. What are the odds? Just how common is it?

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 18,500 people are diagnosed with brain cancer each year and the average age for being diagnosed is 55 years of age. The average age at death of the nearly 13,000 who will die from brain cancer is 64 years of age. That would indicate that an individual will typically live for 9 years once he/she becomes diagnosed and that it is of concern for those advanced in age.

However, the data for being diagnosed by age groups is as follows:
* 13.8 percent under age 20
* 10.0 percent between 20 and 34
* 11.7 percent between 35 and 44
* 14.4 percent between 45 and 54
* 15.4 percent between 55 and 64
* 17.1 percent between 65 and 74
* 14.2 percent between 75 and 84
* 3.6 percent 85+ years of age.

The statistics show that the odds are not all that different by age, meaning anyone from any age should pay attention to symptoms (see the first article in this series).

Statistics on the mortality rate of brain cancer are as follows:
* 0.3 percent deaths under age 20
* 4.2 percent between 20 and 34
* 8.3 percent between 35 and 44
* 15.2 percent between 45 and 54
* 19.2 percent between 55 and 64
* 23.9 percent between 65 and 74
* 19.5 percent between 75 and 84
* 5.5 percent 85+ years of age.

Those in the younger age groups will survive longer with the disease according to the statistics.

Death rates by race and sex are listed as follows:
* All races Men, 6.3 per 100,000 Women, 3.2 per 100,000
* Caucasian Men, 5.6 per 100,000 Women, 2.8 per 100,000
* African American Men, 12.8 per 100,000 Women, 6.3 per 100,000
* Asian/Pac Islander Men, 11.2 per 100,000 Women, 6.8 per 100,000
* Amer Indian/Alaska Native Men, 7.3 per 100,000 Women, 4.1 per 100,000
* Hispanic Men, 9.5 per 100,000 Women, 5.3 per 100,000

For one seeking how to know if you have brain cancer the statistical information assists in the process. It all relates to the likelihood of having it. If cancer is diagnosed, the question then becomes how can you survive the diagnosis, what treatments are effective, how can you beat it.

We will examine the quality of life of those living with brain cancer in an upcoming report in this series.

I am a father of five and a grandfather of one. I am at an age where health issues have become relevant as cancer, Alzheimers, and a host of others have started affecting family and lifelong friends.

I am educated in journalism and computers and I have extensive background as an executive in the computer and telecomm industries. I have spent a career researching and data gathering for business purposes. I now apply those same skills in a search for effective solutions to health issues affecting my loved ones.

I am sharing my discoveries. An important link for those interested in treatment choices and cures is: http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/

When looking into how to know if you have brain cancer, if one receives the bad news that cancer exists, that person's life has instantly and severely changed for the worse. The questions flow in a non-stop stream; what now, who should I tell, how will I survive, can I beat this, what will happen to those who depend on me, can I continue to work, and many more.

The first thing to establish is what are the choices for communication about the issue. Where can one find answers to the incessant questions? The medical practitioner who gave the diagnosis is the first point of contact for answers. The doctor will have the most business-like and analytical point of view. He/she is formally educated in the area and no doubt has heard all of the most common questions and concerns from many different patients. The doctor will have considerable experience with the patient's emotions about the news and should be able to provide much information and hopefully a much needed compassion to the effects caused by the diagnosis.

It is repeatedly reported that apprising family of the situation has much more benefit than not. There can be a thought to not want to burden others. If the person with the diagnosis doesn't want cancer to be constantly a topic of conversation and doesn't want constant sympathy, it is still better to discussed the situation with loved ones than to leave them uninformed. You would want to know if the roles were reversed.

The individuals emotions seem to run the gamut from anger, to resentment, to disbelief, to grief, to denial, to apathy. These are ways different people react to the news but can also be a series of emotions all within the same person.

The attitude of the individual with the diagnosis seems to an overriding factor in one's chances for recovery and one's quality and length of life. Some people are helped profoundly by talking to others who have cancer. The American Cancer Society keeps lists of such groups for every local area.

I am a father of five and a grandfather of one. I am at an age where health issues have become relevant as cancer, Alzheimer, and a host of others have started affecting family and lifelong friends.

I am educated in journalism and computers and I have extensive background as an executive in the computer and telecomm industries. I have spent a career researching and data gathering for business purposes. I now apply those same skills in a search for effective solutions to health issues affecting my loved ones.

I am sharing my discoveries.

An important link for those interested in treatment choices and cures is: http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/

When trying to find out how to know if you have brain cancer, it helps to have a basic understanding of what the brain is and what role it plays in the body. The brain is described in many different ways, defined as having 5 sections by some resources and having 21 sections in other resources. The depth of the description need not be very complex for a general understanding.

The brain is considered the senior organ in the body and the central computer for all body functions in animals. It is composed of soft tissue, is more than 60% fat, and is located just underneath the skull. It is attached above the spinal cord and is the control point for the central nervous system in the body.

The brain is linked to all parts of the body by a network of nerves carrying messages back and forth whereby the brain can monitor and control all body activity. Much study of the brain has been conducted by scientists to conclude the brain controls the things we choose to have the body do (like walking and talking) as well as the things the body does automatically that we don't have to think about doing (like breathing.) The brain is also in charge of the senses of the body which are sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell. The brain is usually considered to play an important role in a person's memory, emotions and personality.

The brain is known to have billions of connections between it and the various parts of the body. These are the connections which pass information and instructions back and forth. The brain is the most complex part of the body. So while much is known about its function and relationship with the rest of the body, much still remains a mystery.

It is easy to see, therefore, that when trying to find out if you have brain cancer how an abnormality in the brain can show up as any one of many different symptoms elsewhere in the body, depending on what part of the brain has the imperfection.

I am a father of five and a grandfather of one. I am at an age where health issues have become relevant such as cancer, Alzheimer's, and a host of others have started affecting family and lifelong friends. I am educated in journalism and computers and I have extensive background as an executive in the computer and telecommunication industries. I have spent a career researching and data gathering for business purposes. I now apply those same skills in a search for effective solutions to health issues affecting my loved ones. I am sharing my discoveries.

A must see link for those interested in treatment choices and cures for brain cancer is: http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/

The following are questions you should be sure and ask of your doctor:
* What symptoms data makes you think I need testing for brain cancer?
* What else could be the cause of these symptoms?
* What tests are you recommending?
* Describe each of the recommended procedures.
* What do I need to do to prepare for each test procedure?
* What is the name of the person performing the test?
* What is the recovery time after each test procedure?
* When will test results be available?
* Who will explain the results of my tests to me?
* What other testing options are available?
* When the results are available, would it lead to additional testing?
* If so, what does that consist of?
* Who are the members of the medical team that will be involved with my case?
* How do I contact them (phone numbers)?

Two different doctors will give two different sets of answers to the above questions. It is important to have a doctor that you trust and that you are comfortable with. If you don't feel you can be completely open and honest with your doctor, then find another doctor. Remember, you are putting your life in this doctor's hands.

I am a father of five and a grandfather of one. I am at an age where health issues have become relevant as cancer, Alzheimer's, and a host of others have started affecting family and lifelong friends.

I am educated in journalism and computers and I have extensive background as an executive in the computer and telecomm industries. I have spent a career researching and data gathering for business purposes. I now apply those same skills in a search for effective solutions to health issues affecting my loved ones.

I am sharing my discoveries.

The following is a MUST SEE link for anyone interested in treatment choices and cures for brain cancer: http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/

In researching about how to know if you have brain cancer, certain current event information comes up that is worth reporting on. President Obama is encouraging Congress to craft a bill that would spell out how the federal government could increase the role it plays in making health insurance and insurance benefits available to more Americans. Two Democratic Senators are spearheading efforts to remake the nation's health care system with sweeping health care legislation.

Senator Max Baucus, a Montana Democrat and chairman of the Finance Committee, is crafting a bill that is aimed at health care reform of private providers to create meaningful, affordable coverage for all Americans. That is in contrast to fellow Democratic Senator Edward M Kennedy of Massachusetts, chairman of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, who favors a comprehensive public health care plan by creating a government sponsored entity that would compete with private insurers. Senator Kennedy is recovering after months of treatment for brain cancer. President Obama favors a public plan choice for the American people in order to "keep the private insurance companies honest."

Democratic Senator Charles E. Schumer of New York has stated it is unlikely either Senator would support the other's bill but feels they might both support the compromise plan he is developing whereby any public plan would have to comply with the same rules, regulations and standards that apply to private insurance companies. Such a public plan would also have to be self-sustaining without access to federal funds to sustain it.

The fact that Mr. Kennedy is back in the pressure cooker of holding the job of a Senator with its debates and disagreements as a way of life is an inspiration to other victims of brain cancer. He has resumed a very public life, engaging other high powered individuals on a daily basis, resuming what for him is a "normal life" with those around him fully aware of his brain cancer condition and his struggles with undergoing treatment.

I am a father of five and a grandfather of one. I am at an age where health issues have become relevant as cancer, Alzheimer's, and a host of others have started affecting family and lifelong friends. I am educated in journalism and computers and I have extensive background as an executive in the computer and telecomm industries. I have spent a career researching and data gathering for business purposes. I now apply those same skills in a search for effective solutions to health issues affecting my loved ones. I am sharing my discoveries. A must see link for those interested in treatment choices and cures for brain cancer is: http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/

A number of researchers have looked at how to know if you have brain cancer as regards the factor of heredity. Is the likelihood of having or getting brain cancer higher if someone in your family has it? One problem with trying to substantiate a genetic relationship with brain cancer is separating out the genetic connection from the fact that the persons are also in the same environment, especially if they are immediate family.

Doctors have long agreed that the risk of getting breast, colon and prostate cancers did have a relationship to a person's family history of such cancers. A study last year by the University of Utah and Tel Aviv University looked at family histories that went back 3 to 10 generations. Researchers have concluded that there is a hereditary correlation with brain cancer and that persons with a family history of the cancer are at higher risk of getting the disease themselves. The records of 1500 people were used with information going back to the early 1800s. While there have been earlier studies that suggested there was a hereditary relationship, this study effectively eliminated the shared environment possibility as the cause. The study showed as much as a 4 times greater risk of contracting the disease if one has a family history of brain cancer.

After considering the results of the study it makes it that much more important to tell your doctor if there is any known brain cancer in your relatives or anywhere in your family history. While a family history of cancer in no way means you have it or will get it, it can guide you and your doctor to take precautionary steps to prevent onset of the disease. As well it could result in early detection if you indeed do have it which medical experts agree is extremely valuable. Cancer treatment and cure has a much higher success rate in persons in which the cancer was detected early.

About The Author:

Daniel Lorch is engaged in research into cancer, alzheimers and other diseases with the ultimate goal of finding and disseminating the most effective treatments and cures, especially according to those who have been cured. Mr. Lorch invites you to see some amazing cure claims at [http://howtoknowifyouhavebraincancer.blogspot.com/]

A brain tumor can be either cancerous or non-cancerous depending upon whether the tumor is growing and spreading aggressively. If the tumor is not aggressive then it will be termed 'benign' and generally speaking a benign tumor is less serious but treatment may still be required.

Brain cancer is the term given to a malignant brain tumor. If the tumor is growing and producing abnormal cells, which spread and take over the space of healthy cells then it will be termed 'malignant' or 'cancerous'. Cancerous brain tumors can originate either directly from the brain (known as Primary tumors) or they can develop from a cancerous tumor elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain (known as Secondary tumors).

They can grow anywhere in the brain and therefore you can experience different symptoms depending upon which area of the brain the tumor is situated.

The brain is divided into three main structures:
1. The Cerebrum (front)
2. The Cerebellum (back)
3. The Brain Stem (bottom)

Each part of the brain is responsible for different bodily functions.

The Cerebrum is divided into two halves (the right and left cerebral hemispheres). These are responsible for a person's memory, emotions, senses, speech and thinking. Opposite sides of the cerebral hemispheres control opposite sides of the body so that the left cerebral hemisphere controls the right hand side of the body and vice versa. Each hemisphere is then sub-divided into 4 areas each one being responsible for controlling different aspects, such as personality, sight, sense of smell and speech. A brain tumor in this part of the brain can cause difficulties with speech, vision, hearing and behavior.

The Cerebellum is at the back of the brain and is largely responsible for a person's balance and co-ordination. Ordinarily these functions occur spontaneously without thinking but a tumor in this part of the brain can make simple tasks that are taken for granted such as walking extremely difficult.

The Brain stem is at the bottom of the brain and is responsible for controlling basic things such as our breathing, heartbeat, blood pressure and eye movement. It connects the cerebrum and cerebellum to the spinal cord.

Statistically where adults are concerned most brain tumors grow in the cerebrum whereas in children they are more likely to occur in the cerebellum or brain stem. In adults it is also more common for a brain tumor to be secondary rather than primary whereas in children it is the reverse. It is important to remember that brain tumors(brain cancer) remain a rarity with approximately 4500 people diagnosed in the UK each year.

Some of the most common symptoms of a brain tumor can be; headaches, sickness and drowsiness but these symptoms are very common in lots of other illnesses therefore the chance of it being because of a brain tumor is small. Nevertheless if you are worried or concerned you should seek medical guidance. Other specific symptoms for a brain tumor can be problems with your sight including blurred vision, tunnel vision and floating shapes and/or fitting. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and you are concerned, you should speak to your doctor who will refer you to a specialist if necessary for further tests ad investigations; which may include CT and MRI scanning and/or a biopsy.

If a brain tumor is diagnosed various treatment options will be discussed with you. For primary tumors, surgery is usually considered as a first option provided the tumor is not positioned at the skull base. For secondary tumors again surgery will usually be considered first together with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy.

If you believe that you have been the victim of a medical error or negligence in relation to the diagnosis of or treatment of a brain tumor it may be possible to claim compensation. Compensation will not resolve the medical issues but it may ease the financial burden by providing the money to pay for necessary care, therapy, and equipment. If you would like to discuss a possible claim please contact http://www.HeadInjuryUK.com who are specialist brain cancer lawyers who will be able to offer you further free advice and information. HeadinjuryUK are specialist solicitors who investigate claims for compensation arising from clinical negligence involving traumatic head injuries. Contact us to speak to a solicitor for a free assessment of a potential medical negligence claim on 0800 073 0988.

Let's face it. Brain cancer is scary. Since the brain is the nerve center of the human body, brain cancer conjures up images of a mind disintegrating, along with the mobility and other functions of the body. There are essentially two types of brain cancer: cancer that starts in an organ such as the kidney or lung and makes its way to the brain (metastatic brain cancer), and cancer that starts in the brain and filters down to other organs (primary brain cancer). Cancer cells grow to form tumors that are either benign or malignant. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) assigns a grade to tumors based on how they look under a microscope. The grade designation ranges from Grade I, indicating benign and slow growing, to Grade IV, indicating malignant and rapidly growing. No one knows the causes of brain cancer. Research scientists have determined that individuals with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop some form of cancer. Personal habits (i.e. smoking, alcoholism) and viral infections (HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, etc.) may contribute to developing cancer. Even if an individual maintained a pristine lifestyle, other factors, such as heredity or occupational environment might conspire to bring about cancerous tumors.

So how does one "take charge" of their brain cancer? First, avoid the "risk factors" stated above. If possible, avoid employment in "risky" environments, such as mining, oil refinery, embalming, and rubber-industry work. If a diagnosis of brain cancer is made, get information on the cancer regarding symptoms, risk factors, treatments and other options, because knowledge is power, and power will lessen fear. Richard Block, co-founder of H & R Block, and a survivor of cancer wrote in his book, Fighting Cancer:

"You must, on your own, make the commitment that you will do everything in your power to fight your disease. No exceptions. Nothing halfway. Nothing for the sake of ease or convenience. Everything! Nothing short of it. When you have done this, you have accomplished the most difficult thing you will have to accomplish throughout your entire treatment."

Such a commitment will test the mental, emotional and spiritual fortitude of the cancer patient as well as those of his family and other supporters. The cancer patient must maintain an "I will beat this" attitude even as his family and friends have resigned themselves to his death. Participation in cancer support groups, internet forums and blogs with other cancer patients determined to fight the disease is invaluable. Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen states, in a foreword to the book, Fighting Cancer from Within, written by Dr. Martin L. Rossman, that "a diagnosis of cancer is a personal encounter with the will to live" and that "this will is buried in the heart of every living thing". I cannot say it better myself!

[http://www.cancerwithoutfear.com]

What are glia cells?

Glia cells hold together the neurons in the brain. The glia communicate with the neurons to trigger the neurons to function. One way to think of glia is that they are a network of cells throughout the brain. The glia are also described as the glue that holds the neurons in place.

What happens to the glia when they become malignant?

When the cells of a glia multiply, a malignancy is forming. Initially there will not be any symptoms. Unfortunately the cancer of the glia is very aggressive, that is, develops quickly. By the time symptoms are noticed a tumor is growing.

What is gliblastoma multiforme?

GBM, as glioblastoma multiforme is called, is the deadliest, most aggressive form of brain malignancy. GBM can form anywhere in the brain, and is the highest grade of cancer, a grade 4. There is no cure. There are 500,000 cases a year in the U.S.

What are GBM symptoms?

The symptoms are directly related to where the tumor is located in the brain. Brain malignancy is difficult to diagnose because for every group of symptoms there are multiple possible diagnoses. For instance, when my husband began searching for words, we thought he was experiencing "senior moments." Yet, he quickly progressed to no longer knowing the names for objects. Then he could no longer spell or read. These symptoms progressed over four weeks.

How is glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) diagnosed?

When brain involvement is expected, the MRI is performed. The MRI will show up the tumor, where it is located, its shape, and it its size. From a biopsy, tissue samples are sent to pathology where the tumor is diagnosed.

What is the treatment standard for glioblastoma (GBM)?

The first line of defense is surgical removal, called a resection. Not all GBMs are operable. If the malignancy is located at the brain stem or anywhere else where resection would cause more harm than improvement, then surgery is not an option. The next line of defense is radiation therapy, five days a week, for four to seven weeks, along with chemotherapy. When the radiation is completed, then there will be a maintenance protocol of continued chemotherapy for several months.

What is the prognosis for this type of cancer?

Poor, glioblastoma multiforme is incurable. Other GBM tumors will form, and other surgeries may be performed. Aggressive radiation and chemotherapy will be offered. Life expectancy is anywhere from few weeks to a couple of years.

The most aggressive and deadliest form of brain cancer is glioblastoma multiforme. This is the type of cancer that Ted Kennedy had. There is no cure for this cancer. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

Judy Brutz is a Quaker chaplain, marriage and family therapist, retreat leader and speaker. She is an authority on spouse caregiving and glioblastoma multiforme. Judy lives in Idaho with her family. Her husband is being treated for glioblastoma multiforme. Judy calls on her training and experience as hospice chaplain, therapist and retreat leader to care for herself. She writes for other spouse caregivers. She offers hope. Feel free to communicate with her. comments.judy@gmail.com

Brain cancer is a serious medical condition that is often referred to by medical professionals as "Meningioma" and also as "Glioma". When an individual has this type of cancer, it means that there are abnormal cells growing in and/or around the brain. This form of cancer may develop from the brain cells that are considered to be primary, but it could develop from cells that are specific to certain locations in and around the brain.

These regions include the membranes and even the small blood vessels within or around the brain. There are types of cancer that result from cells that spread from other regions in the body - such as organs. In this brain health guide, you will learn about details pertaining to brain cancer.

What is a Brain Tumor?

When an individual has brain cancer, it indicates that they also have a brain tumor. The abnormal cell growth that indicates brain cancer is referred to as a tumor. Tumors, while abnormal, are not always cancerous. Those that are simple growths and are not cancerous are identified as "Benign". Tumors that are found to possess cells that are cancerous are identified as "Malignant".

If these tumors are identified in the brain or the area surrounding the brain, they are considered to be quite serious and even have the potential to be life-threatening. This is mostly due to the fact that the cancer contained within these tumors has the capability of spreading in a rapid fashion. Tumors are further identified as "Primary" and "Secondary" among medical professionals.

The Cause

There are many theories on why brain cancer develops, but there is no one specific cause that has been identified. Scientists and medical researchers are still conducting tests and researching the onset of brain cancer in order to better understand it.

The tumors that are identified as "Primary" are believed to be a result of abnormal cell growth in the actual tissues of the brain, while the "Secondary" tumors appear to result from abnormal cell growths from other locations of the body and then travel through the bloodstream until they reach the brain. The other theories surrounding the development of brain cancer identify the following as risk factors:

• Many seem to have a genetic predisposition towards developing brain cancer when someone in the family had the condition in the past.
• Certain individuals are at a higher risk for developing this condition due to the fact that they work in certain professions, such as those that are professional embalmers and those that work in refineries for oil production.
• Radiation exposure or overexposure may result in brain cancer.
• Smoking has been established as a common risk factor of developing this form of cancer.
• There are many theories that are considered a bit unusual, yet are being investigated to determine if they result in brain cancer. These theories include the use of sweeteners that are artificial, cell phone use, consistent computer exposure, head traumas, and even consuming foods that are processed and/or heated in a microwave.

If you are concerned that you or a loved has this cancer, it is important to make an appointment with a medical professional as soon as possible. Many cases of brain cancer may be resolved immediately if they are caught early enough. Even if there is no way to treat the cancer, there are treatments that will soothe the symptoms associated with cancer.

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Author: Anne Ahira, CEO of Asian Brain Company