A biopsy may not reveal whether you have cancer
Brain Tumour Symptoms To Look Out For As Martin Kemp Opens Up On Past Health Scare
As Martin Kemp opens up about the two benign brain tumours he had removed in the early 90s, here are all the warning signs you need to look out for - including behavioural changes
Martin Kemp had two benign brain tumours removed in the 90s (Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Martin Kemp has predicted he has '10 years' left to live after battling two brain tumours in his 30s - and spotting the symptoms early can be vital.
The Spandau Ballet bassist opened up on his past health battle during an episode of his son Roman Kemp's podcast, FFS! My Dad Is Martin Kemp. When asked how much longer he expects to live, Martin ominously warned: "I'll be really honest with you, 10 years."
The admission then prompted the musician, 62, to reflect on the health scare he encountered in the early 90s, in which he was diagnosed with two benign brain tumours. Martin underwent radiotherapy and surgery to have them removed, and while the operation was successful, he continues to suffer side effects - including epilepsy.
A benign brain tumour is the name given by the NHS to non-cancerous forms of brain tumour. These are "low grade" which means they grow slowly and are less likely to return after treatment. However, catching them early can be vital in ensuring successful surgery and recovery, so understanding the symptoms and warning signs is important.
Brain tumour symptomsAccording to the NHS website, the symptoms of a brain tumour vary depending on the exact part of the brain affected. Sometimes you may not have any symptoms to begin with, or they may develop slowly over time. However, common warning signs include:
You should see a GP if you experience any of these symptoms, particularly if you have a headache that feels different from the type of headache you normally get, or if your headaches are getting worse. The NHS states: "You may not have a brain tumour, but these types of symptoms should be checked."
Brain tumours can affect people of any age, including children, but they tend to be more common in older adults. More than 12,000 people are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour in the UK each year, of which about half are cancerous. The cause of most brain tumours is unknown, but risk factors can include age, exposure to radiation, and genetic conditions such as tuberous sclerosis and neurofibromatosis type 1 and 2.
Treating brain tumoursTreatment for brain tumours will depend on several factors including the type of tumour you have, where it is in your brain, how big it is, and your overall health. However, common treatments include:
The NHS states: "Surgery is often used to remove brain tumours. The aim is to remove as much abnormal tissue as safely as possible. It's not always possible to remove all of a tumour, so further treatment with radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be needed to treat any abnormal cells left behind."
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, Cancer Research UK can help. Their website has further information on the types of brain tumours, as well as treatments. You can also call their nurse helpline between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday on 0808 800 4040.
Brain Cancer
CURE's brain cancer page features the latest cancer news and updates on brain cancer Through articles, videos, podcasts, and more, CURE brings readers the insights of experts, cancer survivors, patients, and advocates to ensure everyone is up to date in brain cancer.
May Is Brain Tumor Awareness Month
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Primary brain tumors affect 90,000 individuals annually with almost 30% malignant (cancerous).
No screening exists for brain cancer with over 120 different types existing. Most brain cancers are actually spread from other parts of the body (secondary brain tumors), commonly from the breast, lung, colon, melanoma (skin), leukemia, and lymphoma (blood and lymph). Symptoms may mimic other medical conditions.
As a result, individuals may delay in seeking medical evaluation and receiving treatment.
Thursday on Daybreak, we discussed common symptoms associated with brain cancer and when to seek evaluation.
Symptoms include:
This list is not exhaustive and the severity of symptoms depends on the size and location of the brain tumor. Occurrence is more common in middle adult life but can occur at any age. Individuals with persistent symptoms should see a doctor for further evaluation.
Brain cancer is more common in males with three out of five affected individuals being male. Risk factors also include a history of radiation to the head and neck as well as occupational chemical exposure. Genetics only account for 5% of brain tumors.
Factors may play a role in increasing an individual's risk of developing cancer. Eating whole food plant-based nutrition full of antioxidants and fiber, staying physically active, getting adequate sleep, and minimizing stress are several ways to decrease your risk.
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