# Brain tumour treatment: surgery, radiotherapy and drugs

> Source: World Aid Network — https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/brain-tumour/treatment

## In short

Treatment depends on whether the tumour is benign or malignant, where it sits, and how fast it grows. Options include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Some slow-growing tumours are watched with scans. World Aid Network funds treatment for patients who cannot pay in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. We do not replace NHS care in the UK.

A neuro-oncology multidisciplinary team plans care. Location next to speech or movement areas changes what surgery can safely remove.

## What does surgery aim to do?

Remove as much tumour as is safe, relieve pressure, and obtain a diagnosis. Complete removal is not always possible without harming function.

## When is radiotherapy used?

After surgery for many malignant tumours, or as the main treatment when surgery is not safe. Stereotactic radiosurgery is used for some small, well-defined lesions.

## What drugs are used?

Temozolomide is a common chemotherapy for some gliomas. Steroids reduce swelling. Not every tumour is treated with chemotherapy. Clinical trials exist in the NHS; World Aid Network does not run trials.

## Key takeaways

- Treatment is highly individual.
- Surgery, radiotherapy and drugs may be combined.
- WAN funds overseas bills, not UK neurosurgery.

## Related pages in this guide

- Overview: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/brain-tumour
- Symptoms: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/brain-tumour/symptoms
- MRI: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/brain-tumour/tests
- Treatment: https://worldaidnetwork.org/cancer/brain-tumour/treatment

## Frequently asked questions

### Can a benign tumour still need surgery?

Yes, if it presses on the brain or is growing.

### Will I lose my hair?

Radiotherapy to the head often causes hair loss in the treated area. Chemotherapy effects depend on the drug.

### Do you fund brain tumour research?

No. Donations pay for clinical treatment access overseas.

## How you can help

World Aid Network funds cancer treatment for patients who cannot pay in Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. Donate at https://worldaidnetwork.org/appeal/cancer-emergency or https://worldaidnetwork.org/donate?cause=cancer-treatment&appeal=cancer-emergency

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This is general information, not medical advice, published by World Aid Network. Always consult a qualified clinician about your own health.