BRAIN tumours are one of the most deadly types of cancer — but not everyone knows the warning signs.
Poet and writer Benjamin Zephaniah tragically died aged 65 after he was diagnosed with the condition eight weeks ago.
GettyPoet and writer Benjamin Zephaniah tragically died aged 65 from a brain tumour[/caption]
The Peaky Blinders star died by his wife’s side after battling the disease, his family said in a statement.
More than 12,000 Brits are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour every — of which around half are cancerous — with 5,300 losing their lives.
The disease is the most deadly cancer in children and adults aged under 40, according to the Brain Tumour Charity.
Brain tumours reduce life expectancies by an average of 27 years, with just 12 per cent of adults surviving five years after diagnosis.
There are two main types of brain tumours, with non-cancerous benign tumours growing more slowly and being less likely to return after treatment.
Cancerous malignant brain tumours can either start in the brain or spread there from elsewhere in the body, and are more likely to return.
While their cause is unknown, you are more at risk as you age, with most brain tumours occurring in adults aged 85 to 89 — even though some types are more common in children.
Exposure to radiation from radiotherapy, CT scans or X-rays of the head can also increase the risk in rare cases.
A family history genetic conditions like tuberous sclerosis, neurofibromatosis and Turner syndrome can also boost the chances.
Treatment depends on the type of tumour, where it is on the brain, how big it is and how far it’s spread, and your overall health and fitness.
It can include steroids, drugs to ease symptoms, surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, and is more successful if the disease is caught early — so it is important to know the signs.
Brain tumours can cause headaches, seizures, nausea, vomiting and memory problems, according to the NHS.
They can also lead to changes in personality weakness or paralysis on one side of the problem and problems with speech or vision.
If you are suffering any of these symptoms, particularly a headache that feels different from ones you normally get, you should visit your GP, the health service says.
What are the 9 most common symptoms of a brain tumour
Headaches
Seizures
Feeling sick
Being sick
Memory problems
Change in personality
Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
Vision problems
Speech problems