1. Brain tumours in children: causes, symptoms, and treatment
Brain tumours are masses or lumps that form in the brain. They can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). Brain tumours are rare in children, accounting for only 2-3% of all childhood cancers. The cause of most brain tumours is unknown. However, some factors that may increase the risk of brain tumours in children include:
-Exposure to radiation
-Exposure to certain chemicals, such as solvents
-A family history of brain tumours
-Having a genetic disorder, such as neurofibromatosis or tuberous sclerosis
The symptoms of brain tumours in children can vary depending on the size and location of the tumour. Common symptoms include:
-Headaches
-Nausea and vomiting
-Seizures
-Changes in vision
-Changes in mood or behaviour
The treatment for brain tumours in children depends on the type and size of the tumour, as well as the child’s age and general health. Treatment options may include:
-Surgery
-Radiotherapy
-Chemotherapy
-Brain radiation
-Stereotactic radiosurgery
2. How to prevent brain tumours in children
There is no known way to prevent brain tumours in children. However, some steps that may help reduce the risk of brain tumours include:
-Limiting exposure to radiation, especially during childhood
-Avoiding exposure to certain chemicals, such as solvents
-Having a healthy diet and lifestyle
-Regularly checking for any signs of a brain tumour
3. What are the symptoms of brain tumours in children?
The symptoms of brain tumours in children can vary depending on the size and location of the tumour. Common symptoms include:
-Headaches
-Nausea and vomiting
-Seizures
-Changes in vision
-Changes in mood or behaviour
4. How to recognise brain tumours in children
Brain tumours can often be difficult to recognise in children. However, some signs that may suggest a child has a brain tumour include:
-Headaches that are severe and persistent
-Nausea and vomiting
-Seizures
-Changes in vision
-Changes in mood or behaviour
-A lump or mass on the head
-Unusual head shape
-Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
-Difficulty speaking or swallowing
5. Treatment for brain tumours in children
The treatment for brain tumours in children depends on the type and size of the tumour, as well as the child’s age and general health. Treatment options may include:
-Surgery
-Radiotherapy
-Chemotherapy
-Brain radiation
-Stereotactic radiosurgery
6. Surgery for brain tumours in children
Surgery is often the first treatment option for brain tumours in children. The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the tumour. Common surgical procedures include:
-Removing the tumour through a craniotomy (surgical opening of the skull)
-Removing the tumour through a keyhole surgery (endoscopy)
-Stereotactic radiosurgery
7. Radiotherapy for brain tumours in children
Radiotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses radiation to kill cancer cells. It is often used to treat brain tumours in children. Radiotherapy may be given as:
-External radiotherapy – radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body
-Internal radiotherapy – radiation is delivered directly to the tumour using a needle or catheter
8. Chemotherapy for brain tumours in children
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used to treat brain tumours in children. Chemotherapy may be given as:
-Systemic chemotherapy – the drugs are given intravenously (through a vein) and travel throughout the body
-Targeted chemotherapy – the drugs are given directly to the tumour
9. Living with brain tumours in children
Living with a brain tumour can be a difficult experience for both children and their families. Some of the challenges may include:
-Coping with the diagnosis
-Managing symptoms
-Adjusting to changes in appearance or abilities
-Dealing with emotional stress
-Coping with treatment side effects
10. Supporting a child with a brain tumour
Supporting a child with a brain tumour can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Some tips for supporting a child with a brain tumour include:
-Being there for them emotionally
-Helping them manage their symptoms
-Encouraging them to stay active and involved in activities they enjoy
-Providing practical support, such as helping with meals, laundry, and errands