In light of Senator John McCain’s cancer diagnosis, we went to a brain doctor at Cleveland Clinic to explain what exactly glioblastoma is, its prognosis and what you need to look out for.
“Glioblastoma is the most common malignant primary tumor of the brain,” explained Dr. Manmeet Ahluwalia, director of the Brain Metastasis Research Program at Cleveland Clinic.
In fact, about 12,000 people are diagnosed with glioblastoma every year in the United States. It is an extremely aggressive tumor –- most commonly seen in older patients –- and traditionally treated with some kind of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
In Sen. McCain’s case, brain scans show all tissue they were concerned about was removed in surgery.
“Such patients traditionally do better than those patients where they can only do a biopsy or remove a small part of the tumor,” noted Dr. Ahluwalia.
The five-year survival rate for glioblastoma patients over 55 is just four percent, according to the American Cancer Society. However, Dr. Ahluwalia said that can vary.
“On average, survivals of glioblastoma happen to be around 15 months to 18 months, based on some of the new clinical trials,” he said. “However, there are patients who make it beyond five years based on what kinds of treatment they do and what kind of care they get.”
Senator McCain’s tumor was discovered during a routine physical, highlighting the importance of preventive care.
“For most medical conditions, the sooner you diagnose someone's problem, the better situation you are in to take care of it,” Dr. Ahluwalia said.
According to Dr. Ahluwalia, 99% of the glioblastoma patients he sees have no risk factors. He said some of the warning signs of a brain tumor include weakness in the arms or legs, persistent headaches, seizures and memory problems.
Dr. Ahluwalia said there are some promising clinical trials going on right now, including immunotherapy and even a vaccine.
“We are excited about some of these clinical trials that are being done here at Cleveland Clinic but also some of the major institutions around the country, as we all are united in our quest to make a difference in the lives of our patients with glioblastoma and other brain tumors," Dr. Ahluwalia said.
