Brain Tumor Awareness Month
Posted by zachary on May 15, 2024
Mayor McDavid proclaimed May as Brain Tumor Awareness Month, responding to Councilwoman Brandy Westmoreland's call to highlight the importance of raising awareness about this health challenge. In support of this proclamation and the theme of Brain Tumor Awareness Month, Councilmembers and City employees were encouraged to wear gray to the council meeting. Councilwoman Westmoreland noted that gray is the official color representing brain tumor awareness and by donning this color, individuals collectively demonstrate their dedication to supporting those affected by this condition.
During the meeting, Councilwoman Westmoreland paid tribute to those who have passed away due to brain tumors, acknowledging their families, as well as patients and survivors currently battling the disease. As their names were mentioned, family members stood in solidarity, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness for brain tumor advocacy.
The proclamation highlighted that brain tumors can affect individuals of any age, impacting various aspects of their lives including memory, vision, balance, coordination, taste, hearing, and everyday activities such as driving, working, and attending school. Despite the significant impact and prevalence of brain tumors, there are fewer than 30 FDA-approved drugs and devices to treat over 120 different types of primary brain tumors. With 1 million Americans living with a brain tumor, over 100,000 Americans expected to receive a primary brain tumor diagnosis in 2024, and a survival rate of less than 35%, the statistics underscore the urgent need for increased awareness and support. Tragically, more than 20,000 Americans are projected to lose their lives to brain tumors in 2024 alone.
During Brain Tumor Awareness Month, the City of Zachary aims to raise awareness about brain tumors within the community, offering support to patients and contributing to research efforts conducted by scientists and physicians. These endeavors are aimed at developing improved, less toxic treatments and ultimately finding a cure for this devastating condition.