The project intends to answer the one question that plagues most all patients: Why did this happen to me?

CERN is expanding the work of our successful Ependymoma Outcomes Surveys to improve our understanding of risk factors associated with the occurrence of ependymoma. Research has shown that certain risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing cancer. Factors can include exposure to chemicals or other substances, personal and family medical history.

Sign up today at cern-foundation.org/get-involved/risk-project

Ependymoma is form of brain cancer. Ependymoma Awareness Day is designed to increase public awareness of this rare tumor and the need for clinical studies to improve early diagnosis, standardize treatment and improve the health status of those living with this disease.

Ependymoma Awareness Day offers a rare opportunity to focus attention on this tumor which affects the brain and spine of all age groups-from infants to older adults. Ependymoma Awareness Day will culminate with a butterfly release that will be streamed on the internet to that supporters around the world can share in this event. The delicate and beautiful butterfly was chosen to represent ependymoma as it symbolizes rebirth and hope.

The project intends to answer the one question that plagues most all patients: Why did this happen to me?

CERN is expanding the work of our successful Ependymoma Outcomes Surveys to improve our understanding of risk factors associated with the occurrence of ependymoma. Research has shown that certain risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing cancer. Factors can include exposure to chemicals or other substances, personal and family medical history.

Sign up today at cern-foundation.org/get-involved/risk-project

Dr Nada Jabado speaks with ecancertv at AACR 2016 about epigenetic mutations found in high grade gliomas.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms that occur within the epigenome can alter the structural assembly of proteins and the function of cellular components, with Dr Jabado reporting on a handful of mutations that can alter cell architecture, resulting in a pluripotent and resistant cancer.

She also describes the incidence of ependymoma, apparently not characterised by mutational origin, but a structural malformation that results in high mortality.

Spinal surgeon Dr Richard Williams shares the success of his patient, Reaneon Watson's recovery after a grapefruit size tumour is removed from her spine. Her rehabilitation journey is inspiring.

Childhood brain tumors are a group of abnormal growths of cells in a child's brain or the tissue and structures surrounding it. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and they are a relatively rare but serious medical condition. Understanding childhood brain tumors involves knowledge of their types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

Types of Childhood Brain Tumors:
1. Gliomas: These tumors originate from glial cells, which support and nourish nerve cells. Gliomas are the most common type of childhood brain tumor. Subtypes include astrocytomas, ependymomas, and oligodendrogliomas.

2. Medulloblastomas: These are highly malignant tumors that primarily affect the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordination.

3. Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumors (PNETs): PNETs are aggressive tumors that can develop in various parts of the brain and central nervous system.

4. Craniopharyngiomas: These tumors occur near the pituitary gland and can affect hormone production and the optic nerve.

5. Brainstem Gliomas: These tumors develop in the brainstem, which controls many vital functions. They are often challenging to treat due to their location.

6. Choroid Plexus Tumors: These tumors occur in the choroid plexus, responsible for cerebrospinal fluid production.

Causes:
The exact cause of childhood brain tumors is often unknown. However, some factors that may increase the risk include genetic predisposition, certain genetic syndromes (e.g., neurofibromatosis, Li-Fraumeni syndrome), exposure to radiation, and rarely, viral infections.

Symptoms:
The symptoms of childhood brain tumors can vary widely depending on the tumor's location, size, and type. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches, often severe and worsening over time.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Changes in vision, including double vision or loss of peripheral vision.
- Seizures.
- Weakness or numbness in the limbs.
- Difficulty with balance and coordination.
- Changes in personality or behavior.
- Delayed development or loss of developmental milestones in younger children.

Diagnosis:
Diagnosing childhood brain tumors involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. These tests may include:
- Neuroimaging: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography) scans are used to visualize the tumor's location, size, and characteristics.
- Biopsy: A sample of the tumor tissue is taken for examination to determine its type and grade.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): Cerebrospinal fluid may be tested for cancer cells.
- Blood Tests: These can help detect certain markers associated with brain tumors.

Treatment:
Treatment for childhood brain tumors depends on factors such as the tumor type, size, location, and the child's overall health. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: Whenever possible, surgical removal of the tumor is the first step.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to target and kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Medications are used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth.
- Targeted Therapy: Specific drugs are used to target certain molecules involved in cancer growth.
- Stem Cell Transplant: This may be necessary after high-dose chemotherapy.

The prognosis for childhood brain tumors varies widely based on these factors. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for improving outcomes. Pediatric oncologists and neurosurgeons work together to create a treatment plan tailored to each child's specific condition. Additionally, ongoing follow-up care is crucial to monitor for recurrence and manage potential long-term effects of treatment.

Despite decades of experience operating on spines, Dr. Paul Asdourian, former Chief of Spine Surgery at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital and now a leader at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute, learned, even more, when he became a spine surgery patient himself. Watch to pick up 10 tips that will help you have an optimal recovery after your spine surgery, and learn more at MedStarOrtho.org.

Art was in the Marshall Islands after nuclear weapons was tested and may have gotten a tumor from the exposure years after being there,he was a avid runner ,running at leasat 10 miles a day until he started getting issues and falling down as he ran and eventually gotten worse..listen to his interesting story !