In 2000, the Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe, which is a German Brain Tumour Association, declared World Brain Tumour Day an International Commemoration Day. Since then, this day has been observed each year on June 8, marking its 24th anniversary this year. Brain tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Brain cancer is a term used to describe a malignant tumour.
Patients with brain tumours, along with their families, usually go through a lot of acute or sometimes even chronic stress, which worsens the situation and their coping capabilities. When patients or their families face chronic stress, they can go in for psychotherapy. Approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help learn to identify negative thought patterns that contribute to chronic stress. Working with a therapist can then begin to change these thoughts to more realistic, helpful ones. They can also learn coping tools that will help them better manage their response to stress. The second option would be medications prescribed by the doctor to help manage some of the symptoms of stress. If they are also experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, the doctor may prescribe an antidepressant.
Dr Ponraj Sundaram, head of neurosurgery at Goa Medical College, says, “There are different types of brain tumours, each with their own symptoms. Some symptoms that people could look out for would be blurry or double visions, loss of consciousness, convulsions, damage to some parts of the brain, an excess or decreased amount of hormone production and speech deficits.”
Dr Charmaine Almeida, an occupational therapist with a specialization in neuroscience, says, “Rehabilitative treatment is required for patients as they face limitations in cognition, physical abilities and psychological well-being. The family of the patient also goes through a lot of stress and should be supported by society so that they can come out of this and form a balance in their personal lives as well. Both patients and their families have different kinds of stressors, such as financial, physical and emotional stressors. Effective stress management techniques are therefore essential for maintaining overall well-being in patients suffering from brain tumours or any kind of cancer, as well as their families.”
She adds, “Incorporating strategies such as deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm the mind and body, reducing feelings of stress and tension. Regular exercise, according to how much physical activity the patient is able to do, can also prove beneficial. Additionally, self-regulatory activities such as journaling and personally meaningful activities can provide valuable outlets for stress relief and relaxation. By adopting these techniques and prioritising self-care, individuals can build resilience, improve coping skills, and enhance their overall quality of life despite their physical ailments.”
Dr Parag Adsule, an assistant professor in occupational therapy, says, “Doctors should break the news to the patient in a sensitive manner and explain the details of the tumour, whether chemo or radiotherapy is required and the side effects that the patient may experience due to these procedures. Although it is perfectly normal for a patient to experience stress and anxiety, they should be provided adequate support to avoid depression. The family also goes through a lot of stress as they need to arrange for finances, a good hospital and deal with the uncertainty of whether the patient will make it through or not. They too need to be prepared as to what to expect and guided on how to manage finances and emotional wellbeing. We often provide family therapy in order to facilitate better communication among them and conduct group activities to understand each other’s perspectives on the situation. There are also several NGOs and Self Help Groups (SHGs) that work to sensitize communities since patients can be gravely affected by how they are perceived by society.”
In Goa, there are also help lines and non-profit organisations (NGOs) helping cancer patients and survivors. CanSurvive, a division of Caritas-Goa, is among them. Their team consists of surgeons, NGOs and physicians specialising in cancer. IMA Ponda Charitable Trust is in charge of the Dilasa, provides treatment to patients and their families dealing with terminal illnesses in an effort to enhance their quality of life. Founded in 2006 by breast cancer survivors Babita Agarwal and Dr Sharmila Sardessai Correia, Muskaan offers assistance to cancer patients, their friends, and family.
On this World Brain Tumour Day, through collective efforts and unwavering support, one can strive towards a future where every individual finds solace in a community that cares.