Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and most aggressive malignant primary brain tumor in humans, involving glial cells and accounting for 52% of all functional tissue brain tumor cases and 20% of all intracranial tumors.
About the Foundation
A Foundation Dedicated to the Memory of a Loving Husband
The GLIOBLASTOMA FOUNDATION was set up by Heidi Lawler to honor the memory of her late husband Philip Lawler, who lost the battle against this awful disease. Heidi’s main motivation is to raise money for research to help eradicate this killer disease and to improve the quality of life for those battling with this underpublicized and deadly form of brain cancer.
First Annual Fundraiser
We are very grateful that USC attended our first annual fundraiser for glioblastoma. Special Thanks go to Dr. Steven Giannotta, Dr. Frank Attenello, Axel H. Schönthal, Ph.D., and Dr. Florence Hofman, Ph.D. for honoring us with their presence and support, delivering such wonderful presentations. We also thank Golnaz Suzuki and Christopher Sickels, Senior Director of Development
Symptoms & Causes of Glioblastoma
Although common symptoms of the disease include seizure, nausea, vomiting, headache, and hemiparesis, the single most prevalent symptom is a progressive memory, personality, or neurological deficit due to temporal and frontal lobe involvement. The kind of symptoms produced depends highly on the location of the tumor, more so than on its pathological properties. The tumor can start producing symptoms quickly, but occasionally is an asymptomatic condition until it reaches an enormous size.
Causes of Glioblastoma
For unknown reasons, GBM occurs more commonly in males. Most glioblastoma tumors appear to be sporadic, without any genetic predisposition. No links have been found between glioblastoma and smoking, consumption of cured meat, or electromagnetic fields. Alcohol consumption may be a possible risk factor.
Treating Glioblastoma Multiforme
While overall mortality rates remain high, recent work leading to an understanding of the molecular mechanisms and gene mutations combined with clinical trials are leading to more promising and tailored therapeutic approaches.
Typically, within several days of a glioblastoma diagnosis, resection surgery is scheduled. Unfortunately, this is a very traumatic time for the patient emotionally and physically, but it is a critical time to begin taking control of your treatment. Decisions you make at this time may have a profound effect on your treatment success and overall survival.
Many people believe the best approach to glioblastoma treatment is a comprehensive one, utilizing the most effective aspects of every treatment mode, including the latest drugs and surgery from conventional Western (allopathic) medicine to exotic botanicals and alternative healing. The hallmark of brain tumors is their heterogeneity; every patient and every tumor is different.