Risk Factors

Scientists have linked several factors with an increased risk of developing a primary brain tumor. Nevertheless, most people who have these risk factors do not develop brain tumors, and many of those who do get brain tumors have none of the risk factors. These factors include the following:

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Males are more likely to get brain tumors than females. Meningiomas, however, are more common in females.

White people tend to get more brain tumors than do people of other races.

Having a family member with a glioma may mean you are slightly more likely to develop the disease.

If you've been exposed to radiation–working in the nuclear industry, for example–you may have an increased risk of developing a brain tumor. Also, people who have received radiation therapy to the head may have an increased risk of developing meningiomas later in life.

Pathologists and embalmers who work with formaldehyde have a greater risk of developing brain cancer. But scientists have not found a link with other workers who are exposed to formaldehyde. Workers who make plastics may be exposed to vinyl chloride, which may increase the risk of brain tumors. And textile and plastic workers may be exposed to acrylonitrile, which could also increase the chance of brain cancer.

Scientists are researching whether cellphone use is a risk factor, but so far studies have not found convincing evidence of an increased risk of brain tumors among cellphone users. Researchers are also investigating if head injuries are a risk factor; so far, studies have not shown an increased incidence of brain tumors among people who have had head injuries.