What is the NABTC?

The Mission
The North American Brain Tumor Coalition is a network of charitable organizations dedicated to eradicating brain tumors. The Coalition represents the interests of its combined constituency by raising awareness of the problem and by advocating for increased research funding, health care, and other issues affecting brain tumor patients. Supported by its member organizations, the Coalition works independently and in collaboration with other patient and professional groups toward these goals.

The Problem
Each year, well over 185,000 people in the United States and 10,000 people in Canada will be diagnosed with a primary or metastatic brain tumor.

• Brain tumors are the leading cause of solid tumor cancer death in children under the age of 20, now surpassing acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and are the third leading cause of cancer death in young adults ages 20-39.
• There are over 120 different types of brain tumors. The diversity of brain tumors complicates treatment.
• The incidence of certain brain tumors is increasing. The reason for this increase is unknown.
• Brain tumors can be malignant or benign, and in either case can be life threatening.
• Because brain tumors are located at the control center for thought, emotion and movement, their effects can be devastating.

Summary Profile
The Coalition represents almost 200,000 patients, family members, and friends with a commitment to ensuring that brain tumors are eliminated, and that those afflicted receive quality health care and other needed services.

Member organizations have raised funds from private sources and awarded millions for research related to brain tumors. Some member agencies also:

• Sponsor conferences for health care professionals and for patients;
• Support graduate medical fellowships;
• Provide educational materials for patients and families; and
• Offer group and individual support for patients and families.