The exact cause of primary brain tumours are not yet fully documented. Most brain tumours develop from uncontrolled and abnormal growth of brain cells. Some factors can increase the risk of primary brain tumours, including:
- Exposure to high doses of ionising radiation (used to treat another cancer)
- Gender (males are at higher risk)
- Increasing age (over 65)
- Race (Caucasians are at higher risk)
In addition, some hereditary conditions increase your risk of developing a brain tumour, such as neurofibromatosis, which affects the development and growth of nerve cells. Risks also increase if a person has a weak immune system (eg. due to AIDS). So far, there has been no documented evidence to prove that the use of mobile phones and microwave ovens cause brain tumours.