About Glioblastomas
When it comes to tumors, knowledge is key as you navigate your diagnosis. Glioblastomas are a type of astrocytoma, a brain tumor named for the star-shaped cells called astrocytes from which it forms.
Glioblastoma tumors are the most common form of brain cancer in adults. They are primary tumors, meaning they originate in the brain rather than spreading to the brain from cancer elsewhere in the body. This type of brain cancer is typically aggressive but rarely spreads outside of the brain.
Glioblastomas tend to be diagnosed in active, otherwise healthy people, and more frequently in men. To learn more, read about the symptoms and risk factors below.
Symptoms and Risk Factors of Glioblastomas
Symptoms include headache, memory problems, weakness on one side of the body, difficulty thinking and speaking, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting and seizures.
The onset of symptoms can be sudden and acute; however, in some patients, there may be gradual changes, such as problems with language and concentration or coordination and strength on one side of the body.
Researchers don’t know yet what causes glioblastomas and are aware of very few risk factors so far. What we do know is that past radiation to the central nervous system or head increases the lifetime risk of developing a glioblastoma tumor. On the other hand, seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, may have a protective effect. The current speculation is that the protection is related to a heightened immune system.
Most glioblastomas are not inherited. They can rarely occur in people with certain genetic syndromes, but it’s more likely to see some families having a high risk for cancer in general.
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