Early intervention isn’t just a good idea—it’s frequently a lifesaver

Kozhikode: Most oncologists and medical experts have, time and again, reiterated that effective treatment of brain cancers depends on early identification. Not only that, but it also greatly enhances patients’ prognosis and quality of life.

The focus on early detection in the treatment of brain tumors demonstrates the dedication to enhancing patient outcomes throughout India, where access to cutting-edge healthcare is becoming more and more common. Oncologists have said that early detection usually makes it simpler for neurosurgeons to remove a tumor entirely without causing harm to the surrounding brain tissue.

Dr Sachin Sekhar Biswal, Consultant – Medical Oncology, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, said that brain tumors, benign or malignant, can be silent but deadly. The doctor said that most patients in the early stages of illness dismiss signs and symptoms like recurring headaches, vision changes, memory lapses, or loss of balance, yet don’t go for a diagnosis, thinking of them as stress or normal.

“Regrettably, by the time these symptoms become intolerable, the tumor might have already reached a critical size. Clinically, early detection of a brain tumor has major benefits. At the early stage of diagnosis, the tumors are usually smaller, contained, and in more accessible regions of the brain for surgical removal. This enhances the probability of total resection and minimizes the necessity for radical therapy, decreasing the risk for complications as well as late effects,” he added.

Dr Biswal said that advanced imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans have revolutionised our ability to detect brain tumors early. “However, technology alone is not enough—it must be supported by awareness. Patients and even general practitioners must stay alert to symptoms that seem out of place or persistent. I’ve seen lives saved simply because someone sought medical advice at the right time,” he said.

Dr Biswal: Just as crucial is the understanding that not all tumors are malignant, but even benign tumors can press vital brain structures and lead to permanent injury if left unchecked. The brain directs everything—from movement and speech to memory and mood—so any irregular growth must be treated quickly.

He said that early diagnosis means early intervention, which usually provides us with additional treatment. He said, “As a doctor, I would recommend that you not ignore any neurological symptoms, no matter how trivial they appear. Routinely check-ups, on-time scans, and being proactive can make a difference between life and death. For brain tumors, early intervention isn’t just a good idea—it’s frequently a lifesaver.”

A blend of precision medicine and cutting-edge technology, along with continuous ongoing research to enhance patient outcomes, is helping India emerge as a global hub for the treatment of brain tumors. Dr Anmol Nagaraj, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, said, “Redefining the landscape of brain tumor management, the medical community across the country is demonstrating its commitment to the management of brain tumors with greater efficacy and patient-centric care.”

Here are a few factors that are helping Indians fight brain tumors more strategically:

• Precision Medicine and Patient–Centric Treatment Strategies: Advanced screening and diagnostic aids, such as genetic profiling and molecular diagnostics, have paved the way for enhanced personalized treatment plans. Patient-centric treatment strategies such as personalised immunotherapy allow addressing specific genetic and molecular characteristics, thereby improving treatment efficacy with fewer side effects.
• Advancements in the Development of Pharmaceuticals: The research ecosystem in India is making a substantial contribution to the worldwide understanding of brain tumors. At IIT, researchers have created a new nanoformulation named Immunosomes, which combines a CD40 agonist antibody with the small molecule inhibitor RRX-001. This strategy resulted in the total elimination of glioblastoma in mice during preclinical investigations and produced a durable immune memory, which may prevent future tumor recurrence.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: Manipal Hospitals is equipped with advanced technology, including Neuro-Navigation, operating microscopes, Intraoperative ultrasounds, Dopplers, Endoscopes, and Exoscopes to enhance precision and elevate the surgical experience. With these technologies, neurosurgeons can visualize real-time brain images during surgery, facilitating precise tumor removal, particularly for tumors located near critical areas, and minimizing the need for more invasive procedures.
• Innovative Non-Surgical Treatments: In India, minimally invasive treatments such as Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT) and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) are becoming more popular. LITT employs laser energy, and SRS utilises radiation to aim at and eliminate tumor cells, guided by MRI. This approach presents a hopeful option for tumors situated in eloquent areas that are challenging to access.

“The country is poised to provide world-class treatment options that greatly enhance the health of individuals fighting brain tumors, thanks to continued investments in technology and research. This advancement enhances India’s reputation in neuro-oncology and instills hope for thousands impacted by these intricate conditions,” Dr Nagaraj added.

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