At the OSUCCC – James, cancer research experts continually focus on studying brain cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure.
Unlike some other cancers, however, most gliomas happen without previous warning and, as of now, there are no known prevention methods.
The OSUCCC – James consistently paves the way towards learning more about what causes gliomas — leading to even more highly targeted prevention, care and treatment.
Screening for Gliomas
Cancer screening exams can help find cancer at its earliest stage, when the chances for successful treatment are greatest. These tests are usually done when a patient is healthy and has no specific symptoms.
Although there are currently no screening tests available to detect gliomas early, expert cancer researchers at the OSUCCC – James are working to develop tests that can detect and diagnose gliomas early, leading to improved outcomes, faster responses and fewer side effects.
Gliomas Risk Factors
A glioma risk factor is anything that increases your chances of developing the disease. It is rare for brain tumors to be hereditary, and there are no definitive risk factors for gliomas, although the following factors may play a role in developing the disease:
- Exposure to ionizing radiation to the brain may increase risk for gliomas
- Exposure to certain chemicals
- Having the following genetic syndromes:
- Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) or 2 (NF2)
- Tuberous sclerosis
- Li-Fraumeni syndrome
- Turcot syndrome type 1 or 2
- Lynch syndrome
- Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome
Not everyone with risk factors will get a glioma. But having certain risk factors may increase your risk of developing the disease. If you are at risk for developing a glioma, talk to your doctor about tests to find out if you have early signs of the disease.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a glioma, would like a second opinion or would like to speak with a brain cancer specialist, please call The James Line at 800-293-5066 or 614-293-5066 to make an appointment.
Related Resources
Gliomas Screening and Diagnosis
Cancer and Food: Five Herbs That Could Reduce Risk
How Lifestyle and Behavioral Changes Can Help Prevent Cancer