May is National Brain Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about brain tumors, recognize those affected by brain cancer, and encourage education about symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. 

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 24,740 malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord will be diagnosed in the United States in 2026. 

Know the Facts About Brain Cancer and Brain Tumors: 

Did You Know? 

Primary brain tumors start in the brain and typically remain there. They are more common in children and older adults. Metastatic brain tumors begin as cancer in another part of the body before spreading to the brain. They occur more often in adults than in children. 

Risk Factors 

The exact cause of most brain tumors remains unknown. However, researchers have identified several factors that may increase risk: 

Radiation exposure: Prior exposure to ionizing radiation, particularly radiation therapy involving the head, may increase the risk of developing brain tumors later in life, although this is rare. 

Family history: Risk may be higher for people with certain inherited disorders, including Neurofibromatosis type 1, Neurofibromatosis type 2, tuberous sclerosis, Von Hippel-Lindau disease, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.  

Weakened immune system: Individuals with impaired immune systems have an increased risk of developing lymphomas of the brain or spinal cord.  

Signs and Symptoms 

Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should consult a physician: 

• Headaches, especially headaches that worsen over time  

• Nausea and/or vomiting  

• Blurred or double vision  

• Balance problems  

• Personality or behavior changes  

• Seizures  

• Drowsiness or changes in alertness  

About Brain Tumors 

Primary brain tumors differ from the more common metastatic brain tumors that develop elsewhere in the body and later spread to the brain. The type and grade of a tumor may help determine the course of treatment. 

Brain tumors are generally separated into four grades (I, II, III, and IV). Tumors may be either benign or malignant. 

• Benign tumors are noncancerous but can still be dangerous because they can cause damage within the brain.  

• Malignant tumors are cancerous and are more likely to spread.  

Screening 

There are no widely recommended tests used to screen for brain cancer or spinal cord tumors. Most brain tumors are found after a person begins experiencing symptoms. Individuals with certain inherited conditions or other risk factors should discuss appropriate monitoring and follow-up care with their healthcare provider. 

Prevention 

Radiation exposure is the only known environmental factor proven to increase the risk of brain tumors. At this time, there are no proven lifestyle changes that can prevent most brain tumors.