Brain tumors can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. While the exact causes of brain cancer remain largely unknown, certain environmental exposures and lifestyle choices may influence risk. It’s important to note that while we cannot prevent brain cancer, we can take steps to reduce the risk by minimizing certain exposures and making informed health choices. In this article, we will address environmental risks, lifestyle choices, genetic factors, and early detection methods related to brain cancer.

Understanding Brain Tumors: What We Know and What We Don’t

Brain tumors arise when abnormal cells form within the brain. Some are benign, while others are malignant. The exact causes of most brain tumors are still unknown, but research has identified certain risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing them.

Environmental Risk Factors for Brain Cancer: What to Avoid

Exposure to high-dose ionizing radiation is a well-established environmental risk factor for brain tumors. This includes radiation therapy to the head and exposure to radioactive substances. Occupational exposure to certain industrial chemicals, such as those found in oil refining and rubber manufacturing, has also been associated with an increased risk, although the evidence is less conclusive.

Lifestyle Choices and Brain Cancer Risk: What You Can Control

While not all brain tumors can be prevented, adopting healthy lifestyle habits may help reduce your overall cancer risk:

• Healthy Diet: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may support overall brain health.
• Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in consistent exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce cancer risk.
• Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to mouth, throat, esophagus, and liver, as well as other cancers like breast, colon, and rectum and should be avoided.
• Protect Your Head: Using helmets during activities like biking and ensuring fall-proof environments for older adults can prevent head injuries, which have been studied as potential risk factors for brain tumors. Though head trauma may increase the likelihood of developing a brain tumor, the individual risk remains very low. In order to avoid likelihood, it is best to practice safe methods like wearing a helmet.

Genetic Factors: Understanding Your Family History

Certain inherited conditions can increase the risk of brain tumors. For example:

• Li-Fraumeni Syndrome: A rare hereditary disorder that significantly increases the risk of several cancers, including brain tumors.
• Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1): A genetic condition that can lead to the development of tumors on nerve tissue, including in the brain.

If you have a family history of these conditions or multiple relatives with cancer, it’s a good idea to speak with a genetic counselor to better understand your risk. Research shows that individuals who learn about their genetic risk for breast cancer tend to experience less long-term distress and fewer regrets than those who choose not to find out.

Early Detection: Recognizing the Signs of Brain Tumors

Early detection of brain tumors can be challenging, but being aware of the symptoms can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. Common signs include:

• Persistent Headaches: Especially those that worsen over time or are more severe in the morning.
• Vision Problems: Blurred or double vision can be a symptom.
• Seizures: Experiencing a seizure without a prior history should prompt immediate medical attention.
• Cognitive or Personality Changes: Noticeable shifts in memory, behavior, or personality.

If you or a loved one experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Empowering Your Health: Take Action Today

While there is no way to prevent 100% of brain tumors, understanding risk factors and recognizing early symptoms are vital steps in protecting your health. Remember to take proactive steps by scheduling regular check-ups and staying informed about your health.

Do you have questions about your symptoms or cancer diagnosis? Residents of New York City, including Queens, can access resources and support through SHAREing & CAREing, a dedicated cancer non-profit organization. We offer educational programs, support groups, and individual counseling to help you navigate cancer-related concerns. Contact us today!

Sources

• “Brain Tumor: Symptoms and Causes”, Mayo Clinic
• “Li-Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS)”, American Cancer Society
• “Brain Tumor Risk Factors”, American Cancer Society
• “7 Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Your Cancer Risk”, UC Davis Health, February 2024
• “Environmental Risk Factors of Primary Brain Tumors: A Review”, ScienceDirect,
• “Brain Tumour Symptoms”, Brain Tumour Research
• “Neuropsychiatric symptoms as early indicators of brain tumors”, Archive of Clinical Cases, December 2024