• Cancer

    Living With Cancer: Understanding glioma

a medical illustration of glioma

Glioma
Glioma, which is one of the most common types of primary brain tumors, can occur in the brain and spinal cord. Gliomas begin in the glial cells — the gluey supportive cells that surround nerve cells and help them function. A glioma can affect your brain function and be life-threatening, depending on its location and rate of growth. Learn about the risk factors and symptoms of gliomas, and when you need to seek medical care.

How to use opioids safely
Are you talking with your health care provider about taking an opioid for cancer pain? Opioid painkillers are highly addictive, and they are not safe for some people. Your medical history, family history and personal history of substance use help determine whether opioids are safe for you to try. Now is the time to plan for safe use, storage and disposal of these medications. Practicing caution can mean the difference between life and death.

Tongue cancer
Several types of cancer can affect the tongue, but tongue cancer most often begins in the thin, flat squamous cells that line the surface of the tongue. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the cancer. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted drug therapy also may be recommended. Learn more about tongue cancer and the importance of oral cancer screening.