National Glioblastoma Day

Young woman holding hands with a glioblastoma survivor, wearing a yellow ribbon, park setting with sunflowers in the background.. — National glioblastoma day illustration

Welcome to National Glioblastoma Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about glioblastoma and supporting those affected by this devastating disease. Join us as we delve into the internet and national history of this important day!

When is Glioblastoma Day?

It's national glioblastoma day on the 17th July.

The Internet History of National Glioblastoma Day

On 17th July 2019, the internet exploded with 180 mentions of National Glioblastoma Day. People from all walks of life came together to share their stories, offer support, and spread awareness about this aggressive form of brain cancer.

Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme, is a type of cancer that develops in the glial cells of the brain. It is the most common and aggressive form of brain cancer in adults. Sadly, the prognosis for glioblastoma patients is often grim, with a median survival time of just over a year.

But National Glioblastoma Day is more than just a day of remembrance. It's a day of hope, support, and rallying together to find a cure. Through social media hashtags, online fundraisers, and heartfelt personal stories, people around the world strive to raise awareness and funds for research to improve treatment options and ultimately find a cure for glioblastoma.

Many organizations and individuals use this day to honor the memory of loved ones who lost their battle with glioblastoma. It is a time to celebrate their lives and continue their legacy by supporting those still fighting the disease. It's a day of unity, showing the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The National History of National Glioblastoma Day

National Glioblastoma Day was officially recognized on July 17th, 2019, with the aim of raising awareness about glioblastoma and supporting those affected by it. The day serves as a reminder of the need to invest in research and support systems for glioblastoma patients and their families.

Since its inception, National Glioblastoma Day has gained momentum, with more and more people joining the cause each year. It is a day when communities come together, united by their shared experiences and determination to make a difference.

Did You Know?

Did you know that glioblastoma gained some unexpected fame when it was featured in the hit TV show 'Grey's Anatomy'? The character Dr. Derek Shepherd, played by Patrick Dempsey, dies from a glioblastoma in one of the most emotional TV moments. While it may be a fictional representation, it shed light on the devastating impact of glioblastoma on individuals and their loved ones.

History behind the term 'Glioblastoma'

1926

Discovery of the Term

In the year 1926, the term 'glioblastoma' was first introduced by the German neurologist and psychiatrist Hans-Joachim Scherer. He used the term to describe a highly malignant brain tumor with glial cell characteristics. The term 'glioblastoma' is derived from the Greek words 'glios,' which means 'glue,' and 'blastoma,' referring to a tumor composed of immature cells.

1927

Pathological Description

In 1927, Dr. Percival Bailey and Dr. Harvey Cushing published a comprehensive study on glioblastomas. They provided a detailed pathological description of the tumor, documenting its aggressive nature and infiltrative growth pattern. This study marked an important milestone in the understanding of glioblastomas and their devastating effects on the brain.

1949

Glioblastoma Multiforme

In 1949, the World Health Organization (WHO) adopted the term 'glioblastoma multiforme' to categorize the malignant brain tumor previously known as glioblastoma. The term 'multiforme' reflects the tumor's ability to exhibit diverse genetic and morphological characteristics, making it challenging to treat effectively.

1979

Advancements in Genetic Research

By 1979, advancements in genetic research allowed scientists to gain deeper insights into the molecular underpinnings of glioblastomas. The identification of genetic alterations, such as mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene, provided valuable clues to glioblastoma development and possible therapeutic targets.

2005

Molecular Subtypes

In 2005, comprehensive molecular profiling studies revealed that glioblastomas can be classified into distinct subtypes based on their genetic and epigenetic profiles. This discovery paved the way for personalized medicine approaches by identifying potential biomarkers and molecular targets specific to each subtype.

2016

Immunotherapy Breakthrough

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the development of immunotherapies for glioblastomas. In 2016, a landmark clinical trial demonstrated the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in treating a subset of glioblastoma patients. This breakthrough offers hope for improved treatment strategies and better outcomes for those affected by this aggressive brain tumor.