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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.

Types of brain tumours

There are many different types of brain tumour. Primary brain tumours start in the brain and 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. 

Secondary brain tumours (also called brain metastases) are tumours that start somewhere else in the body and spread to the brain.

Symptoms of a brain tumour

Symptoms depend on where the tumour is in the brain and how slowly or quickly it grows. The major signs and symptoms of brain tumours 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.

Finding information online

 

When high profile celebrities such as Davina McCall are diagnosed with brain tumours we know that more people search online for information about symptoms. It's important to make sure the information you are reading on websites or social media is accurate and up to date.

We have information about finding reliable health information online and how we produce our cancer information at Macmillan.

How you can help during Brain Tumour Awareness Month

A person in a bright pink jumper is leaning over a table and placing a pound note in a Macmillan collection box. The box is on a table that has been decorated for a Coffee Morning. There are drinks and different sweat and savoury foods on the table. A person in a bright pink jumper is leaning over a table and placing a pound note in a Macmillan collection box. The box is on a table that has been decorated for a Coffee Morning. There are drinks and different sweat and savoury foods on the table.
Donate

Almost 3.5 million people are living with cancer in the UK. Donate today to help us do whatever it takes to improve cancer support for everyone. 

 

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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.

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

Hear from people affected by brain tumours

Mason on dating after a brain tumour diagnosis

Mason was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2022. In his video he talks about dating after his cancer diagnosis. Read Mason's story.

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.

Brain cancer forum on the 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.