There has been a 30% rise in brain tumour diagnosis in Scotland over the last 20 years, the Daily Record reports. The latest figures from the health body show that there were 1,069 cases diagnosed in 2017-19, compared to 822 in 2000-2002. Dr David Jenkinson, the Brain Tumour Charity’s chief scientific officer, said: “These worrying […]
There has been a 30% rise in brain tumour diagnosis in Scotland over the last 20 years, the Daily Record reports. The latest figures from the health body show that there were 1,069 cases diagnosed in 2017-19, compared to 822 in 2000-2002.
Dr David Jenkinson, the Brain Tumour Charity’s chief scientific officer, said: “These worrying figures show just how urgently we need to act on this devastating and life-changing disease.”
He continued: “While brain tumours remain relatively rare, incidence has continued to rise significantly over the last two decades, and this has unfortunately not yet been matched by the tangible progress in diagnosis, treatment and survival outcomes seen in many other cancers.”
The Brain Tumour Charity campaigns to raise awareness of the disease, as well as supporting and funding new treatment centres. The earlier the condition is diagnosed, the better the chance of the patient receiving the most appropriate treatment plan, that could save or prolong their life.
The major symptoms include unexplained fits or seizures. This may involve uncontrollable jerking of the limbs, a spell of confusion or emotional disturbance, or complete loss of consciousness. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should go straight to A&E, where they may be referred for a brain scan.
Other common symptoms include frequent headaches which get progressively worse over time. However, headaches alone are not usually a sign of a brain tumour, unless they are accompanied by sickness and drowsiness, especially in the morning.
In some cases, a brain tumour may cause vision disturbances, such as lateral blind spots or flashing lights. It may also lead the sufferer to become more withdrawn and confused, and struggle with language and memory skills, which impedes on their day to day life.
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