What is Brain Cancer?

Brain cancer (also known as brain tumours) is when cells in the brain grow and multiply in an abnormal and uncontrollable way. Brain tumours are graded by how fast and likely they are to grow back after treatment.

There are 2 main types of brain tumours:

Non-cancerous (benign) brain tumours- these are low grade (grade 1 or 2) which means they grow slowly and less likely to return when treatment finishes.
Cancerous (malignant) brain tumours- these are high grade (grade 3 or 4) and they can either start in the brain (primary tumours) or can spread into the brain from elsewhere (secondary tumours). They are more likely to grow back after treatment.

There is more information on the NHS Website.

Cancer Research UK have further information available on their website on the different types of brain tumours: Types of brain tumours - Cancer Research UK

Referrals for suspected or confirmed Brain Tumours are to University Hospital Southampton and more information can be found on their website: Brain tumours - University Hospital Southampton

Our staff at Salisbury District Hospital have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.