Brain tumours: how much we’ve leant invert the years

Every year, people from all over the world come together to learn and discuss brain tumours. In 2025, International Brain Tumour Awareness Week kicks off from October 25 to November 1.This week is all about understanding what brain tumours are, how they affect patients and their families, and why catching them early is critical.

What is a brain tumour?

A brain tumour is basically a growth of abnormal cells inside the brain. Some are cancerous (malignant), while others are not (benign). Since the brain controls everything we do—thinking, speaking, moving—tumours in this area can cause serious issues. Common signs include morning headaches, sudden fits (seizures), vomiting, blurred vision, weakness, or changes in speech. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Across India, hospitals, NGOs, and schools are organising simple events including walks, talks, free health check-ups, and social media campaigns to spread awareness. These efforts aim to reduce fear, clear up misconceptions, and show that there is help available.

Evolution of brain surgery

Back in the early 1900s, brain tumour surgery was a real risk. There were no scans, little anaesthesia, and no antibiotics. Doctors often found tumours by sticking needles into the brain and feeling for hard tissue. Many patients sadly passed away from infections or bleeding. But with the advent of electrocautery in the 1920s, operating microscopes in the 1950s, CT scanners in the 1970s, MRI scanners in the 1980s, frameless navigation, awake surgery and Temozolomide chemotherapy in the 2000s, and the Government including it in the National list of Essential medicines in 2015, the survival rate for common glioblastoma (an aggressive brain cancer) has improved to around 24 months, which is double what it was in 2005.

Quality-of-life metrics have also seen a positive shift. About 80% of patients who undergo surgery return to work or school within six months, thanks to a combination of physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.

And now, futuristic therapies such as liquid biopsy, CAR-T cell therapy, Vorasidenib, and focused ultrasound are being studied, and early results are quite promising.

A modern tertiary care hospital can be a community hub that creates a “one-stop” neuro-oncology clinic. It can also train doctors and nurses to recognise red-flag signs, run population-based registries that create the data needed for policy changes, and work with state health insurance schemes to keep costs down. When hospitals, charities, and citizens work together, fear goes down, and survival goes up.

What you can do that week

• Wear a grey ribbon and share a photo online with the tag #BrainTumorAwareness

• Learn the warning signs and tell friends; early action saves lives

• Donate blood—cancer patients often need transfusions

• Join a local event—walks, talks, or fund-raisers

• If you notice symptoms in yourself or others, visit the nearest hospital

Turning fear to fight

A century ago, a brain tumour diagnosis felt like the end of the road. But today, better scans, safer surgeries, targeted drugs, and caring communities give patients real hope. By learning, sharing, and supporting one another during International Brain Tumour Awareness Week 2025, we help turn fear into fight—and fight towards future cures.

(Dr. Boopesh Pugazhendi is a neurosurgeon at Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore. Email: boopesh@naruvihospitals.com)