May - Brain Cancer Awareness Month
May marks Brain Cancer Awareness Month—a time to spotlight not only the medical but also the financial and emotional toll of brain tumours. Our recent publications emphasise the depth and breadth of our research in this space.
Led by Prof Tamara Ownsworth, The Making Sense of Brain Tumour programme (Tele-MAST) was a videoconferencing-based psychological support intervention, effective in improving mental health and quality of life for individuals with primary brain tumour (PBT). This study explored its perceived necessity and benefits from the perspectives of both PBT patients and their families. Participants often felt lost in the healthcare system while searching for understanding and hope. Tele-MAST provided much-needed psychological support by acknowledging these challenges and helping individuals cope with and find meaning in their illness. The findings highlight the importance of flexible, patient-centred psychological care that adapts to individuals' evolving needs.
New honours research by Jasmine Luttrell reveals that over half of brain tumour survivors report significant financial hardship, which is closely linked to increased anxiety and reduced quality of life.
This study, led by Prof. Tamara Ownsworth was a NHMRC funded collaboration between Griffith University, Metro South Health (Radiation Oncology) and the Cancer Council Queensland.
Find out more:
https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/publication/the-impact-of-financial-toxicity-on-quality-of-758
Read the full paper from the citation below.
Citation
Luttrell, J., Lion, K., Pinkham, M. B., Collins, L. G., Ownsworth, T. The impact of financial toxicity on quality of life for survivors of primary brain tumour. Journal of Cancer Survivorship (2025).
