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A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting cancer. It is possible to develop brain tumors with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing brain tumors. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your health care provider what you can do to reduce your risk.
There are few known risk factors for brain tumors, mostly because little is known about the causes of brain tumors. The risk factors listed below are under investigation but not confirmed. Those listed for secondary brain tumors refer to risk factors for specific cancers outside the brain, such as lung, breast, and skin, which may metastasize (spread) to the brain.
The following factors may increase your risk of developing a primary brain tumor:
The risk for brain tumor appears to be greater in younger people. Children get more primary brain tumors than older persons. Older people get more secondary brain tumors.
Several uncommon hereditary diseases can predispose a person to brain tumors:
Sources:
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine , 14th ed. McGraw-Hill; 1998
Textbook of Clinical Neurology . W.B. Saunders; 1999
Last reviewed February 2003 by Jondavid Pollock, MD, PhD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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