Brain Cancer
Brain cancer is a complex disease impacting brain cells and functions.” with: “Brain cancer is a complex disease involving the abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain, which can affect how the brain functions. We’re here to help you understand more about brain cancer and access the support that’s right for you.
Know the Facts
Brain cancer is a complex disease impacting brain cells and functions. Different types require specific care. Understanding your symptoms, and what treatment options and support services are available to you can help you feel more prepared. Visit our information pages to learn more about brain cancer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Find answers to more frequently asked questions about brain cancer here.
What are the main types of brain cancer and how are they treated?
There are several subtypes of brain cancer, each with distinct characteristics and behaviours. In adults, the most common malignant brain tumour is glioblastoma (GBM), which is aggressive and fast-growing. In children, the most common malignant brain tumour is medulloblastoma, which arises in the cerebellum. Other brain tumours include astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, ependymomas, and diffuse midline gliomas (DMG). Diagnosis and treatment depend on the tumour type, its location in the brain, and the age of the patient.
Why is brain cancer so difficult to treat?
There are several reasons why brain cancer is especially challenging to treat. The brain is a highly sensitive and complex organ, so tumours are often located in areas where surgery can risk damaging healthy tissue responsible for vital functions. The blood-brain barrier also limits the delivery of many drugs to the brain, reducing the effectiveness of some chemotherapies. In aggressive cancers like glioblastoma, tumour heterogeneity—where different parts of the tumour contain different genetic mutations—makes it difficult to target all cancer cells with a single therapy.
Why is survival so poor compared to other cancers?
Brain cancer is classified as a “less common cancer” in Australia, with an annual incidence of 7.4 cases per 100,000 people in 2024.
Cancers with higher incidence often benefit from stronger advocacy networks, dedicated research funding, and in most cases, better survival outcomes. These advantages tend to reinforce each other over time, drawing more public attention and institutional support.
In contrast, brain cancer faces multiple structural disadvantages: lower incidence limits visibility; poor prognosis deters commercial investment; and a lack of long-term survivors reduces advocacy capacity. These factors combine to marginalise brain cancer in both public discourse and research priorities, despite its high lethality and impact on younger populations.
What are clinical trials and should I consider one?
Clinical trials are research studies that test new ways to prevent, detect, treat, or manage cancer. For many people with brain cancer, clinical trials can provide access to innovative therapies not yet widely available.
Trials are carefully regulated and designed to protect participants’ safety while helping advance scientific knowledge. If you’re considering joining a trial, it’s important to speak with your care team to determine what options might be appropriate for your diagnosis, treatment history, and preferences.
More detailed information about clinical trials — including what they are, how they work, and how they relate to the standard of care — is available on our dedicated page.
Do alternative or natural therapies work for brain cancer?
There is no scientific evidence that alternative therapies can cure brain cancer. However, some complementary therapies may help manage symptoms, reduce anxiety, and improve quality of life.
Examples include acupuncture for nausea and pain, mindfulness practices for stress reduction, and oncology massage for relaxation. Dietary approaches like the ketogenic diet have shown early promise in glioblastoma, but current evidence is limited and inconclusive.
These interventions should never replace evidence-based care, and some may interfere with standard treatments. Always speak with your medical team before trying any complementary or dietary therapy to ensure safety and appropriateness for your condition.
What support services are available for carers and families?
We provide general advice and Support Information for people with brain cancer, as well as their carers, family members, and friends.
We strongly encourage anyone who is newly diagnosed to contact the National Advocacy Service, which can help you understand your options, access supports, and navigate health, disability, and financial systems.
Our Services Directory also offers a comprehensive list of brain cancer–related services available across Australia, making it easier to find the right support, wherever you live.
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