Disparities in Brain Cancer in the United States: A Literature Review of Gliomas

Abstract

In the human body, the central regulatory system of homeostasis is maintained by the brain. Its complexity is mesmerizing and many of its functions are largely uncharted. Unfortunately, its functionality is often impaired through neoplastic growths, like gliomas, which are devastating to patients and their families. Annually, gliomas are the most common primary brain tumours affecting over 20,000 people in the United States. However, despite their status as the third most common cause of cancer related death for individuals between ages 20 and 39, the aetiology of gliomas remains unknown. This paper aims to review the latest information regarding the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) 4th edition classifications of gliomas, their malignant effects, and disparities within these classifications, as well as identify areas for further research. These suggestions for future inquiry may contribute to a better understanding of the pathology of these cancers enabling improvement in prevention, screening, and treatment.

Cerebral gliomas: Treatment, prognosis and palliative alternatives

“…Gliomas are tumors of glial cells that affect the human brain and spinal cord. They most frequently arise from three cell types: astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and ependymal cells [1].…”

“…Alternatively, Grade IV constitutes the fastest rate of malignant growth often described as high grade 3. A glioma is rated on malignant potential according to a multitude of characteristics namely: size, rate of growth, pathology and molecular genetics [1]. The most aggressive form of astrocytoma is glioblastoma and is often categorized as Grade IV.…”

“…The incidence of brain tumors has been increasing and with that, the rate of glioblastoma diagnosis and mortality. It was observed through a study comparing glioblastomas and other gliomas that the incidence of both occurs more in Caucasians than in any other ethnic group [1].…”

“…Gliomas are very aggressive tumors and require intensive treatment to prolong life. Depending on the clinical scenario, a physician can utilize a multitude of therapeutic options including Cyberknife©, surgical excision, radiation, Gamma knife© or proton therapy to eradicate the tumor [1]. External beam radiotherapy or internal chemotherapy may be used as a primary or adjuvant therapy to improve the prognosis.…”

Assessment of trace metal alterations in the blood, cerebrospinal fluid and tissue samples of patients with malignant brain tumors

“…However, they are among the most lethal forms of human cancers due to their aggressive clinical evolution. The reported mortality rate of primary CNS tumors is approximately 60% in the first five years and they are ranked sixth among all malignancies [9][10][11] . Brain cancers are most frequently diagnosed in men, particularly the elderly 10 .…”