Brain Tumor Research: Understanding Brain Stem Gliomas
The brain stem is a very important part of the brain. Because it is an extension of the spinal cord, the brain stem has a vital role in the body. It is responsible for many of the body’s basic functions, including walking, balance, breathing and heart rate.
Brain stem gliomas are tumors in this part of the brain that could be benign or malignant. A benign tumor, even though it is non-cancerous, can still cause health problems for the patient. As the tumor grows, it can press against different parts of the brain. Malignant or cancerous tumors tend to grow rather quickly and infiltrate other areas of the brain, causing loss of the functions that part of the brain controls.
Brain tumor research is vital because, as of right now, there is no cure for this type of cancer. The cause of these types of brain tumors in children remains unknown to this day. There has been a great deal of research done on adult brain tumors, however, the treatments for children are not the same. So, more research is needed in order to effectively treat children.
Brain tumors in children are generally diagnosed with an MRI or with a CT scan. However, the symptoms the child might be experiencing are similar to symptoms of other illnesses or diseases. That means it’s often a long time before brain stem gliomas are discovered.
The goal of the Rory David Deutsch Foundation is to increase the funding for the research for this type of cancer. We are dedicated to providing answers for these families who struggle with the diagnoses their children have received. We understand how those families are suffering because we have been in their shoes. That’s why we are fighting this fight as hard as we are.
Won’t you join us in our mission? Together, we can be the miracle that brings the world a cure for pediatric brain tumors. To find out how you can get involved, contact us today.
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