On the eve of World Brain Tumour Day on June 8, medical experts in Hyderabad are raising urgent concerns about the rising incidence of brain tumours across India. With over 40,000 new cases reported annually, as stated by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), they emphasize the critical importance of early detection and intervention. Delayed diagnosis significantly hampers treatment effectiveness, making awareness of the early symptoms vital for improving patient outcomes.
Brain tumours can range from benign to malignant, typically presenting symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, memory loss, weakness in limbs, and disturbances in vision or speech. Despite often beginning with seemingly innocuous signs, these conditions can escalate rapidly, leading to life-threatening complications if not promptly addressed.
In light of this growing issue, Care Hospitals has launched the ‘Power of 3’ campaign, committed to enhancing neurological emergency response. This initiative ensures emergency calls are answered within three rings, ambulances are dispatched within 30 minutes, and patients receive immediate attention in the emergency room. Dr. Arun Reddy, Senior Neurosurgeon, notes, “In neurological cases like brain tumours, every minute counts. Our campaign is not just about awareness, but delivering timely, expert care.”
The campaign also focuses on educating the public about key warning signs that must not be overlooked. Symptoms such as imbalance, seizures, or sudden memory issues can be indicative of more serious underlying conditions.
Further highlighting this urgent need for awareness, doctors at Olive Hospital have reported a 20% increase in consultations for brain tumours over the past year. “Brain tumours can be deceptive. Symptoms may seem trivial, like a persistent headache, but they could signal something much more serious. Early detection can improve both survival rates and quality of life,” stated Dr. Mohammed Mahmood Ali, Senior Neurologist.
On a more hopeful note, advancements in treatment options are transforming brain tumour care. Dr. V. Naveen Reddy, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Renova Hospitals, expressed optimism about the revolutionary changes in this field. “We are seeing significant breakthroughs, with advanced neuro-navigation, intraoperative imaging, stereotactic radiosurgery, and robotic-assisted interventions becoming standard practices. Furthermore, precision medicine, including targeted therapies and FDA-approved options like vorasidenib for low-grade gliomas, is improving treatment outcomes.”
In addition to these advancements, emerging strategies such as immunotherapy, Tumour Treating Fields (TTFields), and experimental mRNA vaccines present new avenues of hope for patients. The integration of Artificial Intelligence is also being explored for its potential to aid in early, non-invasive diagnosis and treatment planning.
With the increasing prevalence of brain tumours, the emphasis on early recognition of symptoms and timely medical response is more crucial than ever. Both medical professionals and healthcare institutions are working diligently to equip the public with knowledge and resources to combat this growing health concern effectively. As we approach World Brain Tumour Day, the call for heightened awareness and proactive care has never been more critical.
Published – June 07, 2025 07:14 pm IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/doctors-raise-alarm-over-rise-in-brain-tumour-cases/article69668603.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-06-07 19:14:00
