Senator Catryna Bilyk raises awareness on brain tumours

Senator Catryna Bilyk raises awareness on brain tumours as part of International Brain Tumour Awareness Week

As a survivor of brain tumours, Senator Catryna Bilyk is committed to raising awareness about brain tumours and the impact they have on the people suffering from them.

This week is International Brain Tumour Awareness Week (IBTAW), an opportune time to raise awareness about the symptoms and effects of brain tumours.

“Nationally about 1,400 people are diagnosed with malignant brain tumours each year including 100 children. There are also approximately another 2,000 people diagnosed with benign tumours.”
“The numbers may seem small but the impact brain tumours have on both the physical and mental health of sufferers is significant,” said Senator Bilyk.
Brain tumours can cause many symptoms including headaches, dizziness, speech impairment, memory problems and personality changes.
“The cause of most primary brain tumours is unknown and cannot be prevented by a change of lifestyle,” said Senator Bilyk.

It is important that people monitor their health and seek medical advice if they are experiencing the above symptoms. This allows for doctors to conduct tests to determine the cause and to take action if necessary.

“If diagnosed with a brain tumour, the sooner treatment begins, the better the chances for making a full recovery,” said Senator Bilyk.

More information on brain tumours can be obtained from the following organisations:

Brain Tumour Alliance Australia
www.btaa.org.au; or by phoning 1800 857 221

The Cancer Council
www.cancer.org.au; or 13 11 20

The International Brain Tumour Alliance
www.theibta.org.au

Senator Catryna Bilyk, Labor Senator for Tasmania