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Fact Sheet

Every day, 27 Canadians are diagnosed with a brain tumour. Learn more key facts about brain tumours.
  • Every day, 27 Canadians are diagnosed with a brain tumour.
  • It is estimated that 55,000 Canadians are surviving with a brain tumour.
  • There are over 120 different types of brain tumours, making effective treatment very complicated.
  • 23.5 new cases of primary brain tumours were estimated per 100,000 population per year (using data from Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario).
  • In the first year after diagnosis it is estimated the average patient will make 52 visits to their health care team (could include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, blood work etc.).
  • A brain tumour is a growth of abnormal cells that are either within or around the structure of the brain.
  • Non-malignant tumours account for almost two thirds of all primary brain tumours.
  • The most common type of primary malignant brain tumour is glioblastoma. Average survival, even with aggressive treatment, is less than one year.
  • Metastatic brain tumours occur at some point in 20-40% of people with cancer. The incidence of metastatic brain tumours is increasing as cancer patients live longer.
  • Brain tumours are the leading cause of solid cancer death in children under the age of 20, now surpassing acute lymphoblastic leukemia. They are the third leading cause of solid cancer death in young adults ages 20-39.
  • Because brain tumours are located at the control centre for thought, emotion, and movement, they can dramatically affect an individual’s physical and cognitive abilities and quality of life.
  • Brain tumours in children are different from those in adults and are often treated differently. Although as many as 60% of children with brain tumours will survive, they are often left with long-term side effects.
  • Enhancing the quality of life for people with brain tumours requires access to quality specialty care, clinical trials, follow-up care and rehabilitative services.
  • In May 2019, the Brain Tumour Registry of Canada was launched. Accurate data will help researchers understand the disease and improve treatment for those affected.
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