Astuce Spain calls for more research in brain tumors

On the occasion of World Health Daythe association Astuce Spain has denounced the alarming lack of clinical trials and research projects in brain tumors, especially in glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive. The association demands immediate actions by the scientific community and public institutions to address this critical situation.

According to estimates of the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM)brain tumors represent around 2% of all cancers diagnosed in Spain. However, its impact is considerable in terms of disability and life expectancy. Astuce considers it unacceptable that glioblastoma continues to be an insufficiently explored pathology in a context of advances in medicine.

The association has stated that it is currently facing a scientific and economic “poverty”. This lack of resources generates deep helplessness among patients and families, who live in constant uncertainty. “Behind every diagnosis there are patients who face a progressive deterioration of their cognitive abilities,” he noted. Manuel Melendez, coordinator of the Scientific Committee of Astuce Spain.

Astuce has highlighted the need to carry out more clinical trials so that patients have access to therapies that improve their quality of life. “It is essential to redouble research efforts on glioblastoma,” said Meléndez, who also highlighted that these patients must be at the center of research priorities.

Urgent call to action

Ortega Visitationspokesperson for Astuce Spain, insisted on the complicated situation of those diagnosed with glioblastoma. “Access to information and clinical trials is essential for the mental health of patients and their families,” he commented. Ortega emphasized that “every day without progress is one more day of avoidable suffering.”

Glioblastoma is a type of grade 4 glioma, representing approximately el 50% of aggressive brain tumorswith an incidence of three cases per 100,000 inhabitants in Spain. Without treatment, the life expectancy of a patient with this disease is about six months, and with standard treatment, the median survival is about one year.

The association has warned about the lack of research and recognition in the field of brain tumors. “A brain cancer that is not so common should not mean that it is not a priority,” concluded Ortega. The association has requested the Ministry of Health to recognize oligodendroglioma as a rare disease, given its low incidence.

Need for resources and visibility

Astuce Spain has developed the project Oligo Spainwith the support of the Spanish Association against Cancer (AECC)to address research in oligodendrogliomas. The association has become a meeting point for those affected, offering resources and updates on scientific and social advances in the field of brain tumors.

The lack of funding and limited visibility of these tumors reflect a reality that requires urgent attention. Astuce has reiterated its commitment to fighting for equity in research and visibility of the disease. The association continues to work to give a voice to patients and their families, who deserve an opportunity and hope in the face of this devastating disease.

Astuce Spain’s message is clear: “It is necessary to place these patients at the center of priorities, promote new lines of study and guarantee resources that allow progress towards more effective treatments.” The fight to improve the situation of patients with brain tumors is a matter of social and human justice.