 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
Facts/Myths
| Does using a cell phone increase the risk for brain cancer? |
| Our best knowledge modern cell phones emit radiofrequency signals which do not damage DNA or other cellular structures.(1) Studies have been done but no proof of increase risk has been proven. |
|
| Does the use of hair dyes or hair products increase
the risk for brain cancer? |
| Black hair dye has been researched as a potential cause of brain tumors, although the data remains inconclusive at this time.(6) |
|
| People who have a seizure must have a brain tumor. |
| Seizures are the presenting symptom in 20% of brain tumor patients. Other symptoms include, headaches, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, change in personality, mood, mental capacity and concentration. (2) |
|
| Only adults get brain tumors. |
| Brain tumors are the most common solid tumor in children. Many children present with vomiting, headaches, “crossed eyes” or loss of developmental milestones. Pediatric brain tumors are different then adult brain tumors and treated differently also. 69% of children will survive but often have long term side effects from treatment. (3) |
|
| There is only 1 type of brain tumor. |
| There are over 120 different types of brain tumors, making effective treatments very complicated. Brain tumors are either malignant or benign but in either case can be life threatening.(3) |
|
| The risk of developing a brain tumor increases with age.(2) |
| Brain tumors commonly occur in adults between the ages of 55 and 65 and children 3 to 12. (4) |
|
| Brain tumors run in families. |
| Heredity probably accounts for less then 5% of brain tumors. People may have a genetic predisposition for developing cancer including brain cancer. Then when exposed to certain environment factors they more easily develop tumors. Because such a small proportion of brain tumors are thought to be purely heredity its more likely the majority are associated with gene-environment interactions. For example chemical substances known as N-nitroso compounds might influence the risks of both childhood and adult brain tumors. Sources of N-nitroso compounds include such things as cigarette smoke, cured meats and certain cosmetics. (6) |
|
 |
|
| 1) Applied Neurology 4-4-06 CMP Medica 2) National Cancer Institute 3) Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation 4) Adam Healthcare Center 5) Annuals of Neurology Volume 98 Issue 3 2003 6) American Society of Clinical Oncology - The ASCO Foundation 7) National Brain Tumor foundation |
