When glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) mixes with healthy brain tissue, it can be difficult to remove during surgery without harming healthy tissue. A specialized test can help the healthcare team identify the tumor cells more accurately.
New research funded by the Foundation — through a grant announced today — includes this new tool.
Funding Research
Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive type of brain tumor. With a median survival rate of 15 months, current treatment standards are largely limited to surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. The recent passing of Senators John McCain and Ted Kennedy and son-in-law, Beau Biden, has refocused attention on the need to find new and effective therapies.
The Glioblastoma Foundation funds research that will lead to new and improved treatments for Glioblastoma. Research is needed to develop targeted drugs and other effective therapies to improve patient outcomes.
In addition to funding individual brain tumor projects, the Foundation helps connect patients with those projects. The Community Volunteer Leadership Program allows individuals to host various community fundraising and awareness events.
Educating the Public
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive form of brain cancer. The tumors grow and spread quickly, most people dying within 18 months of diagnosis.
Getting the word out about the disease is essential for raising awareness and funding. Having reliable information can help patients and families understand what to expect from their treatment and how to support themselves through the journey.
A glioblastoma diagnosis is often shocking, and it is easy for people to feel lost. Finding a community to join can provide a sense of purpose for those affected by the disease and give them a support network.
The Glioblastoma Foundation professionals offers several community volunteer leadership programs to make it easier for individuals to host fundraising and awareness events. These programs have been created to cater to diverse ages and interests.
Supporting Patients
Glioblastoma is a devastating disease. It’s one of the deadliest brain tumors, and a patient’s decline is rapid once they receive their diagnosis. Glioblastoma patients often feel powerless to control the changes in their body and mind that come with this deadly cancer.
The standard of care for Glioblastoma is surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. This treatment hasn’t changed much in decades, despite advances against other types of cancer.
Several new treatments, including immunotherapies and combination therapies, are promising for glioblastoma patients. However, it can be difficult for patients to learn about these trials. We aim to connect patients with researchers who can help them find hope for a brighter future.
Raising Awareness
Glioblastoma is the most frequent and deadly type of brain tumor in adults. Yet most people have never heard of it unless they or someone close to them has been diagnosed.
Unlike many cancers, Glioblastoma is difficult to treat because the tumor cells mutate and survive even after treatment. And it is nearly impossible to remove all the tumors without causing damage to surrounding brain tissue.
Doctors are experimenting with new ways to reach the tumor cells. One way is by developing drugs that can penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Another is by repurposing existing drugs to target specific glioblastoma subtypes.
Glioblastoma Awareness Day is a time to honor those affected by this disease and raise research funds that will lead to better treatments and longer life expectancies. It’s a day when those who lost loved ones can unite and feel supported by the community as they fight for hope.