About Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is the most aggressive and most common type of cancer that originates in the brain, and has very poor prognosis for survival.

Initial signs and symptoms of glioblastoma may include headaches, memory loss, seizures, personality changes, nausea, and symptoms similar to those of a stroke. Symptoms often worsen rapidly. Treatment usually involves surgery, after which chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used. The medication temozolomide is frequently used as part of chemotherapy. High-dose steroids may also be used to help reduce swelling and decrease symptoms.

In recent years, there has been increased public attention and awareness about glioblastoma due in part to cases involving Canadian singer Gord Downie, Rush drummer Neil Peart and American politician John McCain.

Most adults diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) survive on average 15 to 18 months after their diagnosis. Despite decades of research, malignant brain tumours are some of the deadliest forms of cancer, and remain the biggest cancer killer of adults under 40.

Brain cancer research is drastically underfunded. Despite its incredibly low survival rate, it receives less than 3% of the total funding for cancer research.