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Brain Tumour Awareness Month

March is Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Learn about brain tumour symptoms and how Macmillan can support you if you have been diagnosed.
Find out more about brain tumours

Types of brain tumours

There are many different types of brain tumour. Primary brain tumours are usually named after the cell they develop from, or the part of the brain they start in. The most common type of brain tumours are called gliomas, which develop from cells that look like glial cells in the brain or spinal cord. 

Symptoms of a brain tumour

Symptoms depend on where the tumour is in the brain and how slowly or quickly it grows. The major symptoms to look out for are:

  • changes in personality or behaviour
  • problems with thinking, reasoning or memory
  • headaches
  • seizures (fits)
These symptoms can be caused by a brain tumour. But they can be caused by other conditions too. It is important to get them checked by your GP straight away.

We have more information about the signs and symptoms of brain tumours related to their position in the brain.

Find out more about the different tests and treatments for brain tumours.

Hear from people affected by brain tumours

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Read about Beth's cancer journey

"I refuse to allow it to define me. I just won’t let it." After being diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour, Beth carried on working and refused to let her diagnosis define her. Read about Beth's cancer journey.
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Read Simon's story on the Online Community blog

Simon shares his experience of how he coped with his diagnosis and treatment. He also talks about his amazing fundraising activities in his blog on the Online Community for Brain Tumour Awareness Month.
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Hear from Adam on the Talking cancer podcast

Emma B meets Adam, who was diagnosed with a treatable but not curable form of brain tumour on a work trip to New York. Plus, Emma asks Macmillan professional Dany helpful questions on what living with this type of cancer means for people. Listen to the podcast.

Online Community

The Online Community is a place to chat to others who know what you or your loved one are going through. Visit our brain cancer forum and Glioblastoma multiforme brain tumour forum to talk with people who have been affected by brain cancer, share your experience, and ask an expert your questions.

We also have a dedicated Cancer carers forum and a Family and friends of people with cancer forum.

Related resources

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Booklets
 01 May 2024
Understanding primary brain tumours
This booklet is about primary brain tumours in adults. Primary brain tumours are tumours that start in the brain. This booklet is for anyone who has been diagnosed with a primary brain tumour.
A healthcare professional in blue uniform smiles in front of a medical poster displaying information about brain tumours.
Audiobooks
 01 May 2024
Understanding primary brain tumours audiobook
This audiobook is about primary brain tumours. It is for anyone who has been diagnosed with a primary brain tumour. There is also information for carers, family members and friends.   Listening time: around 3 hours.   You can also listen to this audiobook on Soundcloud.

Support for people diagnosed with a brain tumour

If you have been diagnosed with a brain tumour Macmillan can help.
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Accessing Macmillan services

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Local support

We can help you find support in your local area, so you can speak to people who understand what you or your loved are going through. 
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More information from other organisations

How you can help during Brain Tumour Awareness Month

Lots of people all dressed in green Macmillan tops standing on Westminster Bridge in London with Big Ben in the backgroundLots of people all dressed in green Macmillan tops standing on Westminster Bridge in London with Big Ben in the background
Campaign with us
Join our campaigns to make a positive difference. Join over 25,000 people across the UK, who are campaigning for better support for people living with cancer.
Macmillan trail runners being supported by Team MacmillanMacmillan trail runners being supported by Team Macmillan
Fundraise
With tons of fundraising events and ideas, as well as supporting you every step of the way, join Team Macmillan to raise money for people diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Diane poses for a close up picture in her home office. She has short hair and wears a grey top.Diane poses for a close up picture in her home office. She has short hair and wears a grey top.
Share your story
If you've been affected by cancer, we want to hear about your experience. Your story can help us achieve change. Get involved in a variety of projects and events.
A Macmillan volunteer putting a medal on a runner.A Macmillan volunteer putting a medal on a runner.
Volunteer
Make a real difference in the lives of people affected by cancer. We have volunteering roles to suit you, wherever your skills lie and however much times you can give.
More cancer awareness dates