Today, we will learn about one of the most aggressive and challenging types of cancer. Glioblastoma is a type of brain cancer widely known due to the unfortunate deaths of public figures like U.S. Senators John McCain and Ted Kennedy, as well as Beau Biden, the son of President Joe Biden. 

Since 2019, the third Wednesday in July has been observed as Glioblastoma Awareness Day. Glioblastoma originates in the glial cells of the brain and grows rapidly with a high tendency to spread, making it difficult to treat. Surgery plays a crucial role in treating this cancer.

The cause of glioblastoma remains unknown, although researchers suspect links to factors such as radiation exposure and family history. There are two types of glioblastoma:

• Primary glioblastoma: This is the most common and aggressive form, prevalent in older individuals with a shorter life expectancy.
• Secondary glioblastoma: This type is less common and less aggressive, originating from a lower grade and prevalent in younger patients with a better life expectancy than those with primary glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma symptoms vary based on the tumor's origin and location and may include:

• Headaches
• Seizures
• Nausea
• Cognitive issues
• Changes in vision
• Changes in personality

The life expectancy of patients affected by glioblastoma is relatively low. With treatment, the average life expectancy is 12–15 months, while it is only four months without treatment.

The standard treatment for glioblastoma is surgery, followed by radiation and chemotherapy, but these treatments are not curative as they cannot kill every tumor cell.