There’s no denying that a brain cancer diagnosis can bring fear and uncertainty. But it's important to remember that you’re not alone. Advances in research, treatment, and personalized care are changing the outlook for more than 187,000 Americans living with brain cancer.
At Houston Cancer Institute in Houston and Katy, Texas, Maria Scouros, MD, and our team believe in delivering not only world-class brain cancer care, but also reassurance that hope is real and progress is ongoing. Whether you're newly diagnosed or you’re supporting a loved one through treatment, here are some encouraging facts to keep in mind.
If you’ve just been diagnosed with a brain tumor, one of the first things to understand is that not all brain tumors are cancerous. Most are benign, which means they don’t spread cancerous cells to other parts of your body and may grow very slowly or not at all.
While benign brain tumors can still cause symptoms depending on their location, they’re often treatable through surgical removal or monitoring, with excellent outcomes. Even malignant brain tumors vary widely in severity, and many can be managed effectively with early diagnosis and expert care.
These days, brain cancer treatment has moved well beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr Scouros specializes in multimodal care, which can include a combination of surgery, targeted radiation, and chemotherapy.
Radiation therapy for brain cancer is now more precise and effective, minimizing damage to healthy tissue and improving quality of life. For certain tumor types, we also use targeted therapies that work by interfering with specific cancer cell functions, as well as immunotherapy options that stimulate your body’s own immune system to fight cancer.
No two patients are the same, and that’s why personalized cancer treatment plans are so essential. When you come to Houston Cancer Institute, you undergo a thorough evaluation that includes imaging, biopsy, and molecular testing when appropriate.
This helps us tailor your brain cancer treatment based on tumor type, location, and individual health factors. The result? More targeted, effective therapies and better overall management of the disease.
Medical care is only part of the cancer treatment journey. Emotional, mental, and social support play a vital role in recovery, too. Patients at Houston Cancer Institute have access to resources like counseling, support groups, and wellness programs to help manage stress and stay motivated during treatment.
This integrated approach helps reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase resilience during what can be a physically and emotionally demanding time.
Some brain cancers are aggressive, but many people are living longer thanks to earlier detection and evolving treatments. It’s possible to achieve remission, and others live for years with minimal disease progression and manageable symptoms.
Regular monitoring and follow-up care allow us to address any changes early, adjust treatments as needed, and help our patients maintain a high quality of life.
Brain cancer is complex. But with the right team and a proactive approach, you can face the diagnosis with strength and clarity. At Houston Cancer Institute, we’re committed to offering advanced therapies, compassionate support, and a hopeful path forward for every patient.
If you or someone you love is facing brain cancer, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation online or by phone today to learn more about your options.
