Scientific Sessions

Brain tumors and neuro-oncology represent a critical area of neuroscience and cancer research, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of tumors that originate within or spread to the brain and spinal cord. Brain tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and their severity largely depends on size, location, and growth rate. Common types include gliomas, meningiomas, pituitary tumors, and metastatic brain tumors. Symptoms vary but often include persistent headaches, seizures, vision or hearing disturbances, memory problems, and motor or speech difficulties. Diagnosis typically involves advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scans, along with biopsies to determine tumor type and grade. Given the complexity of the brain, treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach to balance effective tumor removal with the preservation of neurological function.

Neuro-oncology focuses on both surgical and non-surgical strategies for treating brain tumors. Standard treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, while newer approaches such as targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and precision medicine are rapidly advancing the field. In recent years, research has explored novel interventions like tumor-treating fields, personalized vaccines, and gene therapy, offering hope for improved survival rates and quality of life. Supportive care, including rehabilitation and psychological counseling, is equally important to help patients manage cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges. As brain tumors remain among the most complex cancers to treat, continued research and innovation in neuro-oncology are vital to developing more effective, less invasive therapies that extend survival and enhance patient well-being.