Health and Me

Ishita Roy

How Smoking, Alcohol, And Vaping Are Quietly Hurting Women’s Fertility

As <span>fertility</span> issues continue to rise among women, doctors are sounding the alarm on an often-overlooked set of culprits — <span>smoking</span>, <span>alcohol</span>, and <span>vaping</span>. Once seen as lifestyle choices, these habits are now being recognised as major threats to reproductive health, increasing the risk of miscarriages, hormonal disruptions, and long-term fertility complications.

As reported in Business Standard, according to Dr Anuja Thomas, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, lifestyle vices like smoking, drinking, and vaping are silently damaging reproductive health in both women and men. “Many people assume that pausing or reducing these habits only while trying to conceive is enough. But that’s a dangerous misconception,” she said.

These substances, she explained, disrupt hormonal balance, interfere with menstrual cycles, and can reduce fertility. “They damage reproductive organs and even the health of future offspring. It’s essential to quit these habits completely, not temporarily,” she added.

Dr Manju Gupta, senior consultant at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, highlighted that smoking impacts male and female fertility alike. In women, it accelerates the loss of eggs, damages the fallopian tubes, and raises the risk of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage. It also affects the uterus, making it harder for a fertilised egg to implant.

Men are not spared either. “Smoking reduces sperm count and quality, and causes DNA damage. This can contribute to miscarriages and even birth defects,” she explained. Passive smoking, she warned, is equally harmful and should not be overlooked.

<h4>Vaping Is Not a Safe Alternative</h4>

While vaping is often perceived as a safer option, doctors caution otherwise. Dr Neha Tripathi, fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Indirapuram, Delhi NCR, warned that vaping contains harmful chemicals that can damage the uterine lining and affect egg development.

“Smoking harms fallopian tubes, alcohol interferes with ovulation, and vaping leads to hormonal disruptions. These collectively make it harder for women to conceive,” she said. In men, these substances can lower testosterone levels and damage sperm DNA.

She advised that women who are planning a pregnancy — or even thinking about it in the future — should completely quit these habits. “A healthy diet, regular exercise, and early intervention to quit these vices are critical for protecting fertility,” she added.

<h4>Beyond Fertility: A Cancer Concern</h4>

The risks don’t end at fertility. Dr Gaurav Jaswal, consultant in radiation oncology at TGH Onco Life Cancer Centre, Talegaon, said that long-term use of tobacco, alcohol, and vaping products can also increase cancer risk in women.

“These substances weaken the immune system, damage DNA, and cause chronic inflammation. Over time, they raise the risk of breast, cervical, oral, and lung cancers,” he said. Dr Jaswal stressed the importance of making informed decisions and seeking expert help to quit these habits as early as possible.

Doctors across specialties agree: there is no safe amount or “right time” to consume tobacco, alcohol, or vape products if one is trying to conceive. The best course of action is to qui

Health Conditions A-Z

health

women's health

health and wellness

smoking

vaping

alcohol

fertility

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As fertility issues continue to rise among women, doctors are sounding the alarm on an often-overlooked set of culprits — smoking, alcohol, and vaping. Once seen as lifestyle choices, these habits are now being recognised as major threats to reproductive health, increasing the risk of miscarriages, hormonal disruptions, and long-term fertility complications.Hidden Harms of Everyday HabitsAs reported in Business Standard, according to Dr Anuja Thomas, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, lifestyle vices like smoking, drinking, and vaping are silently damaging reproductive health in both women and men. “Many people assume that pausing or reducing these habits only while trying to conceive is enough. But that’s a dangerous misconception,” she said.These substances, she explained, disrupt hormonal balance, interfere with menstrual cycles, and can reduce fertility. “They damage reproductive organs and even the health of future offspring. It’s essential to quit these habits completely, not temporarily,” she added.A Threat to Both GendersDr Manju Gupta, senior consultant at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, highlighted that smoking impacts male and female fertility alike. In women, it accelerates the loss of eggs, damages the fallopian tubes, and raises the risk of ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage. It also affects the uterus, making it harder for a fertilised egg to implant.Men are not spared either. “Smoking reduces sperm count and quality, and causes DNA damage. This can contribute to miscarriages and even birth defects,” she explained. Passive smoking, she warned, is equally harmful and should not be overlooked.Vaping Is Not a Safe AlternativeWhile vaping is often perceived as a safer option, doctors caution otherwise. Dr Neha Tripathi, fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Indirapuram, Delhi NCR, warned that vaping contains harmful chemicals that can damage the uterine lining and affect egg development.“Smoking harms fallopian tubes, alcohol interferes with ovulation, and vaping leads to hormonal disruptions. These collectively make it harder for women to conceive,” she said. In men, these substances can lower testosterone levels and damage sperm DNA.She advised that women who are planning a pregnancy — or even thinking about it in the future — should completely quit these habits. “A healthy diet, regular exercise, and early intervention to quit these vices are critical for protecting fertility,” she added.Beyond Fertility: A Cancer ConcernThe risks don’t end at fertility. Dr Gaurav Jaswal, consultant in radiation oncology at TGH Onco Life Cancer Centre, Talegaon, said that long-term use of tobacco, alcohol, and vaping products can also increase cancer risk in women.“These substances weaken the immune system, damage DNA, and cause chronic inflammation. Over time, they raise the risk of breast, cervical, oral, and lung cancers,” he said. Dr Jaswal stressed the importance of making informed decisions and seeking expert help to quit these habits as early as possible.Doctors across specialties agree: there is no safe amount or “right time” to consume tobacco, alcohol, or vape products if one is trying to conceive. The best course of action is to qui

how smoking, alcohol, and vaping are quietly hurting women’s fertility

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As teens across the globe fall into later bedtimes, a growing body of research suggests this seemingly harmless habit could be more than just a phase. According to a recent study presented at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), teenagers who identify as “night owls” may be biologically predisposed to impulsive and even self-destructive behaviors—raising red flags about adolescent mental health, sleep hygiene, and broader lifestyle risks.

Teenagers who prefer staying up late and waking up late exhibit a higher tendency for impulsiveness, particularly when experiencing negative emotions, the study found. Led by Riya Mirchandaney, a doctoral candidate in clinical-health psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, the research analyzed 210 teenagers across two studies. Participants completed sleep pattern surveys, wore wrist trackers for a week, provided saliva samples to measure melatonin levels, and underwent impulsivity assessments.

Interestingly, the findings challenge long-standing assumptions about melatonin and circadian rhythm. Researchers did not find a significant correlation between dim light melatonin onset—a common measure of the body’s internal clock—and impulsive behavior. Instead, the teens' self-reported preference for staying up late was more strongly associated with behaviors like quitting challenging tasks prematurely or acting out when distressed.

"Surprisingly, we did not find a significant link between dim light melatonin onset and impulsivity in our sample," Mirchandaney stated. "This suggests that there may be unmeasured psychological or behavioral factors influencing both impulsivity and the self-assessment of circadian preference."

The implications of these findings go beyond mood swings and grumpy mornings. Sleep plays a pivotal role in adolescent brain development, physical health, and emotional regulation. When teens fall short of the recommended 8–10 hours of nightly sleep, the ripple effects can touch every corner of their lives—from the classroom to the emergency room.

Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has long pointed out that teens who sleep less than the recommended amount are at greater risk of engaging in dangerous behaviors such as substance use, unprotected sex, reckless driving, and even physical violence. Lack of sleep also affects the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for judgment and impulse control—making adolescents more prone to risk-taking without fully considering consequences.

What’s Causing the Delay in Teen Sleep Patterns?

The shift toward a night owl schedule in adolescence isn’t purely behavioral—it has biological roots. As teens enter puberty, their circadian rhythms naturally shift. Melatonin, the hormone that promotes sleep, begins releasing later in the evening, making it difficult for teens to fall asleep early, even if they try.

This internal shift clashes with rigid school start times, often requiring students to wake up around 6 or 7 a.m., long before their biological clock is ready. Over time, this chronic misalignment leads to what sleep scientists call “social jetlag,” a condition linked to increased stress, depression, anxiety, and now, potentially, impulsive tendencies.

There’s a well-documented, bidirectional relationship between poor sleep and mental health issues. Teens who don’t sleep well are more likely to report anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. At the same time, those experiencing mental health challenges often find it harder to fall and stay asleep.

This loop can create a dangerous feedback cycle: emotional instability leads to sleep disturbances, which in turn worsen mental health. With impulsivity now added to the equation, the concern grows deeper. Reckless decisions made in moments of emotional volatility—especially when amplified by sleep deprivation—could have life-altering consequences.

Physical Development and Chronic Illness Risk

Sleep is essential for hormonal regulation, immune function, muscle recovery, and overall growth—all crucial during the adolescent years. Poor sleep habits have been linked to increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. The metabolic profile of sleep-deprived teens, including elevated blood pressure and cholesterol, mirrors that of adults on the path to chronic illness.

The short answer: no. According to the CDC, approximately 70% of high school students in the United States do not get enough sleep on school nights. The numbers are even more troubling for girls, older teens, and students from Black, Asian, or multiracial backgrounds.

A combination of early school schedules, excessive academic and extracurricular demands, and digital device usage—often past midnight—makes consistent, high-quality sleep an elusive goal for most adolescents.

Teens today are more connected than ever. Phones, tablets, and laptops are often a constant companion—even in bed. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with melatonin production, delaying sleep even further. Notifications and alerts disrupt sleep cycles, and the mental stimulation from social media can keep teens emotionally activated long after they’ve turned off the lights.

Meanwhile, the stress of juggling academics, sports, part-time jobs, and social obligations only adds fuel to the fire. Many teens end up sacrificing sleep in order to meet all their commitments, not realizing the cognitive and emotional toll this can take.

Start with Awareness: Parents should regularly talk to teens about their sleep habits and observe changes in mood, focus, or risk-taking behaviors.

Promote Good Sleep Hygiene: Encourage consistent sleep schedules, wind-down routines, screen-free bedrooms, and calming nighttime environments.

Advocate for Policy Change: Several studies have shown that delaying school start times improves attendance, academic performance, and reduces teen car accidents. Parents can work with school boards to push for healthier schedules.

Manage Expectations and Time: Help teens prioritize their activities and make sure they’re not overscheduled. A balanced life makes room for sleep.

Professional Support: If poor sleep is affecting a teen’s daily functioning, consult a pediatrician or sleep specialist. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) has shown promise in helping adolescents reset sleep patterns.

The new findings about night owls and impulsivity add yet another layer to our understanding of adolescent sleep. It’s not just about how many hours teens sleep—it’s when and how they sleep that matters. As researchers continue to uncover the profound impacts of circadian rhythm disruptions, one thing is clear: improving sleep in teenagers is no longer optional—it’s essential for safeguarding their future.

teen sleep habits

impulsive teens

teen mental health

adolescent sleep deprivation

teen bedtime study

reckless teen behavior

teenage brain development

As teens across the globe fall into later bedtimes, a growing body of research suggests this seemingly harmless habit could be more than just a phase. According to a recent study presented at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), teenagers who identify as “night owls” may be biologically predisposed to impulsive and even self-destructive behaviors—raising red flags about adolescent mental health, sleep hygiene, and broader lifestyle risks.Teenagers who prefer staying up late and waking up late exhibit a higher tendency for impulsiveness, particularly when experiencing negative emotions, the study found. Led by Riya Mirchandaney, a doctoral candidate in clinical-health psychology at the University of Pittsburgh, the research analyzed 210 teenagers across two studies. Participants completed sleep pattern surveys, wore wrist trackers for a week, provided saliva samples to measure melatonin levels, and underwent impulsivity assessments.Interestingly, the findings challenge long-standing assumptions about melatonin and circadian rhythm. Researchers did not find a significant correlation between dim light melatonin onset—a common measure of the body’s internal clock—and impulsive behavior. Instead, the teens' self-reported preference for staying up late was more strongly associated with behaviors like quitting challenging tasks prematurely or acting out when distressed."Surprisingly, we did not find a significant link between dim light melatonin onset and impulsivity in our sample," Mirchandaney stated. "This suggests that there may be unmeasured psychological or behavioral factors influencing both impulsivity and the self-assessment of circadian preference."The implications of these findings go beyond mood swings and grumpy mornings. Sleep plays a pivotal role in adolescent brain development, physical health, and emotional regulation. When teens fall short of the recommended 8–10 hours of nightly sleep, the ripple effects can touch every corner of their lives—from the classroom to the emergency room.Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has long pointed out that teens who sleep less than the recommended amount are at greater risk of engaging in dangerous behaviors such as substance use, unprotected sex, reckless driving, and even physical violence. Lack of sleep also affects the prefrontal cortex—the part of the brain responsible for judgment and impulse control—making adolescents more prone to risk-taking without fully considering consequences.What’s Causing the Delay in Teen Sleep Patterns?The shift toward a night owl schedule in adolescence isn’t purely behavioral—it has biological roots. As teens enter puberty, their circadian rhythms naturally shift. Melatonin, the hormone that promotes sleep, begins releasing later in the evening, making it difficult for teens to fall asleep early, even if they try.This internal shift clashes with rigid school start times, often requiring students to wake up around 6 or 7 a.m., long before their biological clock is ready. Over time, this chronic misalignment leads to what sleep scientists call “social jetlag,” a condition linked to increased stress, depression, anxiety, and now, potentially, impulsive tendencies.There’s a well-documented, bidirectional relationship between poor sleep and mental health issues. Teens who don’t sleep well are more likely to report anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. At the same time, those experiencing mental health challenges often find it harder to fall and stay asleep.This loop can create a dangerous feedback cycle: emotional instability leads to sleep disturbances, which in turn worsen mental health. With impulsivity now added to the equation, the concern grows deeper. Reckless decisions made in moments of emotional volatility—especially when amplified by sleep deprivation—could have life-altering consequences.Physical Development and Chronic Illness RiskSleep is essential for hormonal regulation, immune function, muscle recovery, and overall growth—all crucial during the adolescent years. Poor sleep habits have been linked to increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. The metabolic profile of sleep-deprived teens, including elevated blood pressure and cholesterol, mirrors that of adults on the path to chronic illness.Are Teens Actually Getting Enough Sleep?The short answer: no. According to the CDC, approximately 70% of high school students in the United States do not get enough sleep on school nights. The numbers are even more troubling for girls, older teens, and students from Black, Asian, or multiracial backgrounds.A combination of early school schedules, excessive academic and extracurricular demands, and digital device usage—often past midnight—makes consistent, high-quality sleep an elusive goal for most adolescents.Role of Technology and Lifestyle ChoicesTeens today are more connected than ever. Phones, tablets, and laptops are often a constant companion—even in bed. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with melatonin production, delaying sleep even further. Notifications and alerts disrupt sleep cycles, and the mental stimulation from social media can keep teens emotionally activated long after they’ve turned off the lights.Meanwhile, the stress of juggling academics, sports, part-time jobs, and social obligations only adds fuel to the fire. Many teens end up sacrificing sleep in order to meet all their commitments, not realizing the cognitive and emotional toll this can take.Start with Awareness: Parents should regularly talk to teens about their sleep habits and observe changes in mood, focus, or risk-taking behaviors.Promote Good Sleep Hygiene: Encourage consistent sleep schedules, wind-down routines, screen-free bedrooms, and calming nighttime environments.Advocate for Policy Change: Several studies have shown that delaying school start times improves attendance, academic performance, and reduces teen car accidents. Parents can work with school boards to push for healthier schedules.Manage Expectations and Time: Help teens prioritize their activities and make sure they’re not overscheduled. A balanced life makes room for sleep.Professional Support: If poor sleep is affecting a teen’s daily functioning, consult a pediatrician or sleep specialist. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) has shown promise in helping adolescents reset sleep patterns.The new findings about night owls and impulsivity add yet another layer to our understanding of adolescent sleep. It’s not just about how many hours teens sleep—it’s when and how they sleep that matters. As researchers continue to uncover the profound impacts of circadian rhythm disruptions, one thing is clear: improving sleep in teenagers is no longer optional—it’s essential for safeguarding their future.

teens who stay up late may be wired for recklessness and impulsiveness, study finds

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The personal health care landscape is evolving, with more people turning to at-home medical tests for convenience, privacy, and accessibility. From checking thyroid levels to screening for HIV or cervical cancer, these self-administered tests offer a new level of autonomy — allowing individuals to collect samples in the comfort of their homes and, in many cases, get results without ever stepping into a clinic.

While this marks a significant shift in how healthcare is accessed, not all tests are created equal, and relying solely on them may not be the best approach for everyone.

There are generally two types of at-home tests. One type involves collecting a sample — such as saliva, blood, urine, or a vaginal swab — which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The newly approved at-home cervical cancer test, which screens for HPV strains, follows this model. The other type offers instant results at home, like <span>COVID-19</span> or pregnancy tests.

Tests are now available for a wide variety of conditions: thyroid issues, sexually transmitted infections, fertility indicators, food sensitivities, and more. Prices range from as little as $15 to over $400, depending on the complexity of the test and what it screens for.

At-home tests have distinct advantages. They provide access to health care in remote areas where medical facilities are few and far between. For individuals living in rural regions, where the nearest hospital may be several hours away, these tests offer an alternative to long travel and hospital wait times — especially for screenings like colon cancer that typically require more invasive procedures.

They can also empower those who feel anxiety or discomfort about visiting a clinic — such as members of sexual and gender minority communities — to take charge of their health without fear of judgment. For sensitive tests like HIV screening, this privacy can lead to earlier diagnoses and quicker access to treatment.

Despite their benefits, at-home tests are not a substitute for comprehensive medical care. While some screenings can be done remotely, in-person exams often provide a fuller picture of a patient’s health. For example, a Pap smear or pelvic exam doesn’t just screen for cervical cancer but can also uncover other health issues like abnormal bleeding, sexually transmitted infections, and signs of menopause.

People experiencing symptoms — whether related to gastrointestinal issues, reproductive health, or anything else — should not rely solely on a home test. A negative result at home could delay necessary treatment, especially for those at high risk of serious conditions like colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.

Additionally, interpreting results on your own can be misleading. Even if a test result is positive or negative, it’s important to follow up with a healthcare provider who can offer appropriate guidance and next steps.

Before purchasing an at-home test, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s approved by the appropriate regulatory authorities, such as the FDA. Approval ensures the test meets quality and accuracy standards.

Involving individuals in their own healthcare decisions can lead to better health outcomes, but it works best when combined with professional guidance. At-home tests can be a useful first step — not the final word.

testing in home

home test kits

at home test kits

covid-19

The personal health care landscape is evolving, with more people turning to at-home medical tests for convenience, privacy, and accessibility. From checking thyroid levels to screening for HIV or cervical cancer, these self-administered tests offer a new level of autonomy — allowing individuals to collect samples in the comfort of their homes and, in many cases, get results without ever stepping into a clinic.While this marks a significant shift in how healthcare is accessed, not all tests are created equal, and relying solely on them may not be the best approach for everyone.What You Can Test at HomeThere are generally two types of at-home tests. One type involves collecting a sample — such as saliva, blood, urine, or a vaginal swab — which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The newly approved at-home cervical cancer test, which screens for HPV strains, follows this model. The other type offers instant results at home, like COVID-19 or pregnancy tests.Tests are now available for a wide variety of conditions: thyroid issues, sexually transmitted infections, fertility indicators, food sensitivities, and more. Prices range from as little as $15 to over $400, depending on the complexity of the test and what it screens for.The Pros of Testing from HomeAt-home tests have distinct advantages. They provide access to health care in remote areas where medical facilities are few and far between. For individuals living in rural regions, where the nearest hospital may be several hours away, these tests offer an alternative to long travel and hospital wait times — especially for screenings like colon cancer that typically require more invasive procedures.They can also empower those who feel anxiety or discomfort about visiting a clinic — such as members of sexual and gender minority communities — to take charge of their health without fear of judgment. For sensitive tests like HIV screening, this privacy can lead to earlier diagnoses and quicker access to treatment.The Limitations and RisksDespite their benefits, at-home tests are not a substitute for comprehensive medical care. While some screenings can be done remotely, in-person exams often provide a fuller picture of a patient’s health. For example, a Pap smear or pelvic exam doesn’t just screen for cervical cancer but can also uncover other health issues like abnormal bleeding, sexually transmitted infections, and signs of menopause.People experiencing symptoms — whether related to gastrointestinal issues, reproductive health, or anything else — should not rely solely on a home test. A negative result at home could delay necessary treatment, especially for those at high risk of serious conditions like colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.Additionally, interpreting results on your own can be misleading. Even if a test result is positive or negative, it’s important to follow up with a healthcare provider who can offer appropriate guidance and next steps.Things to Keep in MindBefore purchasing an at-home test, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s approved by the appropriate regulatory authorities, such as the FDA. Approval ensures the test meets quality and accuracy standards.Involving individuals in their own healthcare decisions can lead to better health outcomes, but it works best when combined with professional guidance. At-home tests can be a useful first step — not the final word.

are at-home health tests really safe? experts weigh in

World Brain Tumour Day 2025: When Kids Have Brain Tumours, Early Symptoms Parents Often Miss

World Brain Tumour Day 2025: When Kids Have Brain Tumours: Early Symptoms Parents Often Miss

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Observed every year on June 8, World <span>Brain Tumour</span> Day serves as a global call to action—dedicated to raising awareness, improving early detection, and advocating for better support systems for individuals affected by brain tumours. Established in 2000 by the German Brain Tumour Association (Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe), this day is not only a moment to reflect on the challenges faced by patients and caregivers but also a reminder of the ongoing need for research, education, and compassionate care.

Brain tumours, whether malignant or benign, impact people across all age groups, often with life-altering consequences. While advancements in neuroimaging and targeted therapies have significantly improved outcomes, early diagnosis remains the key to effective treatment and survival. 

Although brain tumours in children are statistically rare, they represent one of the most common forms of solid tumours in the pediatric population, following closely behind blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.

As health systems worldwide continue to improve diagnostic tools and treatment protocols, awareness among caregivers remains the most powerful first step in saving young lives. The challenge lies in the fact that brain tumours in children often present with vague, fluctuating, and non-specific symptoms—making early detection both difficult and crucial.

Brain tumours do not discriminate by age. In fact, according to global cancer statistics, brain, intracranial, and other central nervous system (CNS) tumours are among the top contributors to childhood cancer-related mortality. India, home to the world’s second-largest pediatric population, sees a significant number of brain tumour cases every year—with a notable number detected in children as young as a few months old.

“These tumours are not only difficult to detect, but their early symptoms are also often mistaken for routine childhood issues,” explains Dr. Ishant Rege, Consultant Neurosurgeon. “The earlier we catch them, the better the outcomes, but that’s exactly the challenge—we're looking for signals in a storm of everyday behavior.”

<h2>Why Early Diagnosis Is So Challenging?</h2>

Unlike adults, young children often can’t articulate what they’re feeling. This makes identifying serious conditions like brain tumours incredibly complex. Symptoms may be intermittent, fluctuate in severity, and sometimes appear unrelated to neurological issues. A headache could be dismissed as screen fatigue; irritability might be attributed to teething or general mood swings.

In very young children, signs can be even more subtle. “Parents often bring in children for vague complaints—irritability, excessive crying, refusal to eat—only to discover after imaging that a tumour is the cause,” says Dr. Rege. “We see cases where a child has been misdiagnosed for weeks or months.”

<h2>Early Symptoms Parents Should Not Ignore</h2>

Brain tumours can occur anywhere in the brain, but in children, they are most frequently found in the posterior fossa—a region near the base of the skull. The symptoms depend on the tumour’s location, size, and growth rate.

In infants and toddlers, the early warning signs include:

<ul><li>Asymmetrical head growth or bulging fontanelle (soft spot)</li><li>Persistent vomiting without signs of infection</li><li>Squint or abnormal eye movements</li><li>Poor feeding and failure to thrive</li><li>Unusual or persistent crying</li></ul>

For older children, parents should look out for:

<ul><li>Persistent headaches, particularly in the morning or those that wake the child from sleep</li><li>Repeated vomiting, especially when not linked to a stomach bug</li><li>Sudden clumsiness, frequent falls, or trouble with balance</li><li>Blurred or double vision, or sudden need for glasses</li><li>Seizures, particularly the first occurrence</li><li>Behavioral changes, including unexplained irritability or personality shifts</li><li>Drop in school performance or focus</li></ul>

“A child who was once active and cheerful, suddenly becoming lethargic or moody, is often brushed off as being tired or going through a phase,” says Dr. Rege. “But when multiple symptoms start appearing together, it’s time to investigate.”

<h2>What Role Parents, Teachers, and Primary Caregivers Have In Play?</h2>

Detecting these subtle changes requires keen observation—something that parents, teachers, and caregivers are uniquely positioned to do. Mothers, in particular, often notice when “something just doesn’t seem right.”

“A child constantly tilting their head to avoid double vision, or suddenly becoming clumsy, may not tell you what’s wrong. But these signs are crucial. Teachers may also notice a decline in attention span or classroom performance,” adds Dr. Rege.

This makes open communication between caregivers and healthcare providers vital. When in doubt, seeking a second opinion or requesting imaging like an MRI can be the difference between early intervention and late-stage complications.

<h2>How Diagnosis and Treatment Work?</h2>

Once symptoms raise enough concern, imaging—usually an MRI—is the first step. If a tumour is detected, the next course of action depends on the type, location, and aggressiveness of the tumour. Pediatric neurosurgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are among the treatment options, often delivered in combination.

Fortunately, significant strides in pediatric neuro-oncology have improved outcomes, especially when the tumour is detected early. Survival rates for many childhood brain tumours have improved over the past decade, but early diagnosis remains the single most impactful factor.

World Brain Tumour Day, observed every year on June 8, is more than a day of recognition—it is a call to action. For parents, it’s a reminder to pay attention to subtle changes. For physicians, it’s about remaining alert to atypical presentations. For policymakers and global health leaders, it's a time to prioritize early diagnostic tools, especially in underserved regions with limited pediatric imaging resources.

“We’re not trying to scare parents,” says Dr. Rege. “But it’s about helping them trust their instincts. If something feels off, don’t wait. Get it checked. Brain tumours are rare, yes but missing them can cost lives.”

The earlier we detect, the better the chances of full recovery and reduced long-term complications. On this World Brain Tumour Day, let us pledge to listen, observe, and act because children may not always have the words, but their bodies give us the signs.

Brain tumours in children, while rare, are among the most serious diagnoses. Persistent headaches, unexplained vomiting, vision issues, seizures, and behavioral changes should never be ignored. 

<em>Dr. Ishant Rege is a Consultant Neurosurgeon at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri Pune in India</em>

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Observed every year on June 8, World Brain Tumour Day serves as a global call to action—dedicated to raising awareness, improving early detection, and advocating for better support systems for individuals affected by brain tumours. Established in 2000 by the German Brain Tumour Association (Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe), this day is not only a moment to reflect on the challenges faced by patients and caregivers but also a reminder of the ongoing need for research, education, and compassionate care.Brain tumours, whether malignant or benign, impact people across all age groups, often with life-altering consequences. While advancements in neuroimaging and targeted therapies have significantly improved outcomes, early diagnosis remains the key to effective treatment and survival. Although brain tumours in children are statistically rare, they represent one of the most common forms of solid tumours in the pediatric population, following closely behind blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.As health systems worldwide continue to improve diagnostic tools and treatment protocols, awareness among caregivers remains the most powerful first step in saving young lives. The challenge lies in the fact that brain tumours in children often present with vague, fluctuating, and non-specific symptoms—making early detection both difficult and crucial.Brain tumours do not discriminate by age. In fact, according to global cancer statistics, brain, intracranial, and other central nervous system (CNS) tumours are among the top contributors to childhood cancer-related mortality. India, home to the world’s second-largest pediatric population, sees a significant number of brain tumour cases every year—with a notable number detected in children as young as a few months old.“These tumours are not only difficult to detect, but their early symptoms are also often mistaken for routine childhood issues,” explains Dr. Ishant Rege, Consultant Neurosurgeon. “The earlier we catch them, the better the outcomes, but that’s exactly the challenge—we're looking for signals in a storm of everyday behavior.”Why Early Diagnosis Is So Challenging?Unlike adults, young children often can’t articulate what they’re feeling. This makes identifying serious conditions like brain tumours incredibly complex. Symptoms may be intermittent, fluctuate in severity, and sometimes appear unrelated to neurological issues. A headache could be dismissed as screen fatigue; irritability might be attributed to teething or general mood swings.In very young children, signs can be even more subtle. “Parents often bring in children for vague complaints—irritability, excessive crying, refusal to eat—only to discover after imaging that a tumour is the cause,” says Dr. Rege. “We see cases where a child has been misdiagnosed for weeks or months.”Early Symptoms Parents Should Not IgnoreBrain tumours can occur anywhere in the brain, but in children, they are most frequently found in the posterior fossa—a region near the base of the skull. The symptoms depend on the tumour’s location, size, and growth rate.In infants and toddlers, the early warning signs include:Asymmetrical head growth or bulging fontanelle (soft spot)Persistent vomiting without signs of infectionSquint or abnormal eye movementsPoor feeding and failure to thriveUnusual or persistent cryingFor older children, parents should look out for:Persistent headaches, particularly in the morning or those that wake the child from sleepRepeated vomiting, especially when not linked to a stomach bugSudden clumsiness, frequent falls, or trouble with balanceBlurred or double vision, or sudden need for glassesSeizures, particularly the first occurrenceBehavioral changes, including unexplained irritability or personality shiftsDrop in school performance or focus“A child who was once active and cheerful, suddenly becoming lethargic or moody, is often brushed off as being tired or going through a phase,” says Dr. Rege. “But when multiple symptoms start appearing together, it’s time to investigate.”What Role Parents, Teachers, and Primary Caregivers Have In Play?Detecting these subtle changes requires keen observation—something that parents, teachers, and caregivers are uniquely positioned to do. Mothers, in particular, often notice when “something just doesn’t seem right.”“A child constantly tilting their head to avoid double vision, or suddenly becoming clumsy, may not tell you what’s wrong. But these signs are crucial. Teachers may also notice a decline in attention span or classroom performance,” adds Dr. Rege.This makes open communication between caregivers and healthcare providers vital. When in doubt, seeking a second opinion or requesting imaging like an MRI can be the difference between early intervention and late-stage complications.How Diagnosis and Treatment Work?Once symptoms raise enough concern, imaging—usually an MRI—is the first step. If a tumour is detected, the next course of action depends on the type, location, and aggressiveness of the tumour. Pediatric neurosurgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are among the treatment options, often delivered in combination.Fortunately, significant strides in pediatric neuro-oncology have improved outcomes, especially when the tumour is detected early. Survival rates for many childhood brain tumours have improved over the past decade, but early diagnosis remains the single most impactful factor.World Brain Tumour Day, observed every year on June 8, is more than a day of recognition—it is a call to action. For parents, it’s a reminder to pay attention to subtle changes. For physicians, it’s about remaining alert to atypical presentations. For policymakers and global health leaders, it's a time to prioritize early diagnostic tools, especially in underserved regions with limited pediatric imaging resources.“We’re not trying to scare parents,” says Dr. Rege. “But it’s about helping them trust their instincts. If something feels off, don’t wait. Get it checked. Brain tumours are rare, yes but missing them can cost lives.”The earlier we detect, the better the chances of full recovery and reduced long-term complications. On this World Brain Tumour Day, let us pledge to listen, observe, and act because children may not always have the words, but their bodies give us the signs.Brain tumours in children, while rare, are among the most serious diagnoses. Persistent headaches, unexplained vomiting, vision issues, seizures, and behavioral changes should never be ignored. Dr. Ishant Rege is a Consultant Neurosurgeon at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri Pune in India

world brain tumour day: when kids have brain tumours: early symptoms parents often miss

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