Tag Archives: ptsd

The Connection Between TBI & Brain Cancer

On September 23, 2025, the University of Missouri School of Medicine reported groundbreaking findings that adults with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury face a 50% increased risk of developing brain cancer. The cancer is defined by malignant tumors that grow rapidly and invade surrounding brain tissue. Brain cancer affects approximately 24,820 Americans annually, according to the American Cancer Society, with a 33% five-year survival rate. Importantly, brain cancer itself is classified as an acquired brain injury—a form of non-traumatic brain damage that disrupts brain function.

The relationship between brain injury and brain cancer involves a fascinating interplay. While brain cancer causes acquired brain injury through tumor growth, research now suggests moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injuries may trigger brain cancer development through inflammation synergizing with existing genetic mutations. Not all brain tumors are cancerous, though. Approximately 72% are benign, even if they are still potentially serious depending on location.

Dr. Nimish Mohile of the University of Rochester notes that, “we’re starting to see progress with targeted therapies in the field of neuro-oncology,” offering hope for improved outcomes. Current NIH Director, Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, highlights that, “an AI-based diagnostic system can determine in just 10 seconds if part of a cancerous brain tumor that could be removed still remains,” demonstrating technological advances in treatment.

Prevention strategies include wearing helmets, preventing falls, and maintaining workplace safety—the same measures that protect against head injuries may reduce brain cancer risk. For those diagnosed with brain cancer, treatment often mirrors brain injury rehabilitation, as well—physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation. These comprehensive approaches help patients regain function and improve quality of life, with research showing brain tumor patients recover at rates comparable to stroke and traumatic brain injury patients.

The encouraging news is that while moderate-to-severe TBI increases risk, the absolute probability remains low, and advances in early detection and treatment continue to improve outcomes. Still, patients with TBI history may benefit from monitoring for early tumor detection.

VA Recognizes TBI Mistake: Positive, But Possibly Too Late

According to the Defense and Veteran’s Brian Injury Center (DVBIC), a cooperative between the Department of Defense and Veteran’s Affairs, “Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant health issue which affects service members and veterans during times of both peace and war.”  Given that the military recognizes that traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major problem, it is a shock that, since 2007, 25,000 veterans who are now known to suffer from traumatic brain injury were not initially diagnosed and treated for TBI.  (Tested by doctors who have been found to be unqualified, these veterans were diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  PTSD is terrible, yes, but more treatable than TBI.)

Through this major error, tens of thousands of veterans were not given the appropriate medical and financial help they needed and deserved.  Fortunately, the military now realizes its mistakes and can rectify them and prevent them from happening again.  For many veterans, who have struggled for years to get the military to recognize its difficulties, though, is it too little, too late?

(To learn more about TBI and the military from past service members, visit http://www.disabledveterans.org/.)