As we commemorate World Brain Tumour Day 2024, it is essential to build a future where brain tumours are efficiently managed, and every patient dealing with this challenging disease receives preventive care and support.
The human brain, a delicate yet complex organ serves as the foundation of the quality of life that defines our very survival. Amidst the growing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, alcohol and tobacco consumption, dietary imbalance, and mounting stress levels, there has been a substantial rise in brain tumours. Recent stats showcase that over 300,000 cases are reported annually on a global basis, highlighting the severity to adopt robust preventive measures against brain tumour.
These primarily occur due to the mutation of neurons and formation of abnormal cells, and can vary from being benign to malignant, including meningiomas, gliomas, pituitary adenomas, amongst others. On the same note, it is fundamental to take into account the early signs of indication, namely headaches, personality changes, nausea, memory loss, vertigo, etc that are often dismissed as insignificant. In tandem, recent advancements in cancer management have brought a ray of hope for patients battling with brain tumour by considerably improving the survival rates.
Since brain tumour patients grapple with several issues, they are more likely to be affected by long-term disabilities, which can hamper their quality of life and longevity. In regards, it’s essential to commemorate 2024 World Brain Tumour Day by ensuring a continuum of care with traction towards rehabilitation programs that emphasise on preventive measures and dietary management. As a result, this innovative approach prioritises speedy recovery by facilitating the holistic well-being of brain tumour patients.
6 TIPS THAT CAN HELP IN RAPID RECOVERY
According to Dr.R.Srinath Bharadwaj, Consultant Oncologist, Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
“While the treatment of brain tumour involves a range of modalities, from surgery, chemotherapy to immunotherapy, it is pivotal to undertake effective preventive measures dedicated towards ensuring rapid recovery.”
- Regular health check ups: Regular check ups with your doctor are the foundation for detecting early warning signs, and the key to ensuring better patient outcomes. Advancements in technology have facilitated the integration of AI tools with MRI and CT scans that support the swift detection of brain abnormalities and cancer. In addition, new screening tools being developed are poised to aid in detecting brain cancer from blood samples and prevent patients from the additional risk of radiation associated with medical imaging tests.
- Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical activities helps to maintain overall health and reduce inflammation. Obesity is one of the major risk factors for many cancers, including brain tumours. Hence, it is recommended to do adequate exercise and weight management.
- Monitoring with Smart Devices: The road to expedited recovery calls for the intervention of smart monitoring devices that have delivered remarkable results especially in the segment of home healthcare. These remote monitoring devices help track the effectiveness of already undertaken preventive measures, whilst providing an opportunity to track vital signs, patient’s progress and any complications. In return the insights accumulated by these smart devices can prevent unplanned hospital readmissions by providing targeted interventions to at-risk patients.
- Prioritising Cognitive Functioning: An integral part of successful brain tumour recovery is stimulating cognitive functioning, which essentially means engaging in activities that can give a boost to the brain. Activities or memory games such as crosswords, puzzles, meditating, and others not only encourage cognitive stimulation but also provide therapeutic value, which reduces stress, carving a more holistic road to recovery.
- Nutritional and Dietary Support: Quality nutrients not only fuel the body’s ability to retain strength, but also bolster the process of brain recovery. Simultaneously, a healthy diet packed with cancer fighting nutrients like proteins, minerals, vitamins, and Omega-3 fatty acids can act as armour against brain tumours, and can shut down brain tumour communication signals. At the same time it is equally important to avoid foods that have high sugar, unhealthy trans fat, refined carbs, and processed meat, as they slow down recovery by causing memory and learning impairment.
- Lifestyle modifications: Avoid smoking, reduce alcohol intake,and use protective gear for those who are working in environments with potential exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation.
As we commemorate World Brain Tumour Day 2024, it has become a strategic imperative to build a future where brain tumours are efficiently managed, and every patient dealing with this challenging disease receives quality preventive care and support. At the core, the fight against brain tumour starts by striving towards implementing healthy diet habits, promoting awareness, and stimulating the development of a health-conscious community.