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July 22, 2024 01:16 PM IST
In addition to progesterone effects, genetics and environmental exposures may also play a large role in brain tumor development.
Brain tumors can build up in brain cells and spread in the brain, causing pressure and altering the functioning of surrounding brain tissue. The most common symptoms of a brain tumor are nausea, headaches, and balance problems. Brain tumors can be cancerous or noncancerous in nature. There is a possible link between progesterone and the risk of developing a brain tumor.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anand Katkar, consultant neurosurgeon at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, said, “The relationship between progesterone use and brain tumours is complex and continues to be debated and investigated further due to mixed findings from scientific research. Some studies suggest that certain forms or doses of progesterone may contribute to the development of meningioma, a type of brain tumour arising from the meninges. Meningiomas often have receptors for hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen, suggesting a possible influence of these hormones on tumour growth.”
Also read: World Brain Tumour Day 2024: 12 surprising symptoms of brain tumour that people usually ignore
How progesterone may affect meningioma development:
“Research shows that the presence of hormone receptors in meningiomas suggests a possible role for hormones in their pathogenesis. The exact mechanism of how progesterone may affect meningioma growth is not fully clear and requires further research – progesterone is commonly used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly in combination with estrogen, to manage menopausal symptoms. Long-term studies examining the relationship between HRT including progesterone and various cancers, including brain tumors, have been carried out with varying results,” said Dr. Anand Katkar.
Also Read: Is headache the first sign of brain tumour?
Risk factors beyond progesterone:
The neurosurgeon also noted risk factors for developing brain tumors other than the effect of progesterone. Genetics, lifestyle choices and environmental factors play a huge role in this. “The ongoing scientific investigation of the relationship between progesterone use and brain tumor risk underscores the complexity of hormonal influences on health outcomes. While some studies suggest a possible relationship, careful interpretation is required due to the heterogeneous nature of research findings,” the expert said.
Also Read: What is brain tumour?
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