Brain tumor awareness is crucial, especially in the case of pediatric cancer. Going gray in May is your opportunity to promote the needs of kids with cancer.

What does “go gray in May” mean?

You might start seeing #GrayMay and #GoGrayInMay on social media in May to recognize Brain Tumor Awareness Month. The “gray” in those hashtags represent gray matter, which is the color of the brain cortex, which contains nerve cell bodies.

When is Brain Tumor Awareness month?

Since a United States Congressional resolution was first passed in 2008, organizations across the country are taking the opportunity to focus attention on brain cancer annually during the month of May.

How many people have brain cancer in the US?

Brain cancer affects nearly 700,000 people in the U.S. alone. 

Childhood brain cancer statistics

The statistics regarding brain tumors in children under 19 are upsetting. Pediatric brain cancer affects more young people than most are aware. 

What are the most common pediatric brain tumors?

According to the American Cancer Society, brain and spinal cord tumors are the second most common cancer in children. These types of cancers account for nearly 25% of childhood cancers. Over 4,000 children and teens are diagnosed with brain and spinal cord tumors each year. 

Fortunately, the 5-year survival rate for all combined types of brain tumors is about 75%, but this rate varies drastically. For example, Glioblastoma is a very aggressive cancer often occurring in the brain, and the survival rate is only about 20%.

According to the National Brain Tumor Society, brain tumors and cancers affect Americans from all walks of life. Still, the statistics in young people under the age of 19 are heart-wrenching, and the disease has a tremendous impact on the quality of life for the patient and their families.

• Approximately 70% of all brain tumors are benign, and 30% are malignant.
• Over 18,000 people die from a malignant brain tumor each year.
• Brain tumors are the most common solid cancer in people ages 19 and younger in the United States.
• Pediatric brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related death among children and adolescents under 19.
• Approximately 31,000 adolescents and young adults are estimated to be living with a brain tumor in the United States.

Causes of brain cancer

Certain types of tumors, such as medulloblastoma, are more common in children. In many cases, the exact causes of brain tumors in children are unknown. Still, according to research at the Mayo Clinic, most pediatric brain tumors are generally primary brain tumors that form in brain tissues. Healthy cells have mutations in their DNA; these mutations divide and grow at an increased rate. They spread while destroying healthy cells. The consequence is a mass of abnormal cells which develop into a tumor. The tumors will either be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Brain Tumor Symptoms in Kids

The skull protects the brain, a fragile part of the body. There is a limited amount of extra space; as a brain tumor grows, this will cause pressure known as intracranial pressure. As this pressure occurs, symptoms might begin to develop. Johns Hopkins Medical University provides abundantly helpful information about children’s brain tumors. Some of the signs and symptoms they mention to be aware of:

• Headaches
• Seizures
• Nausea and vomiting
• Irritability
• Lethargy and drowsiness

The above list is very general symptoms, so it does not automatically mean a brain tumor or cancer if you see one or even all of them. If you are concerned that your child or a loved one might have any brain issues, don’t hesitate to contact a health care professional and seek a thorough diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Pediatric Brain Tumors

If a tumor has developed, there are many treatment options. The three most common are:

• Surgery – Most common in infants and young children. If the tumor is accessible and slow-growing, surgery might be the only required treatment for complete removal. There might be some neurological issues after surgery, but usually, they are only temporary.
• Radiation Therapy – Beams of radiation target the tumor and tissue surrounding the area. This treatment may require several sessions to remove all cancer.
• Chemotherapy – There are different forms of chemo available, pills taken orally or IVs given intravenously. The chemo is usually injected into the cerebrospinal fluid.

Here to Serve can Provide Guidance

Here to Serve can help

A cancer diagnosis is news no parent or guardian ever want to hear. Pediatric  It is a life-changing event that will affect all family members. Fear and confusion are just two of the emotions parent go through in the early days of learning this news. Where can you turn for support? Family and friends can provide emotional care during this time. 

Many organizations that research and treat brain cancers and tumors highlight their cause during Brain Cancer Awareness Month. Here to Serve often does not get the spotlight in these efforts, but we are vocal, nonetheless! The hard work and dedication to spread brain cancer awareness and highlight resources continue throughout the year. 

If you need additional assistance for day-to-day tasks, please reach out to Here to Serve and our Care Communities. We have helped many families with children suffering from brain tumors and other pediatric cancers. Our aid and care can ease your anxiety during a stressful time.

By Chris Smith.