Epidemiology of Anthropometric Factors in Glioblastoma Multiforme-Literature Review

Although glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a widely researched cancer of the central nervous system, we still do not know its full pathophysiological mechanism and we still lack effective treatment methods as the current combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy does not bring about satisfactory results. The median survival time for GBM patients is only about 15 months. In this paper, we present the epidemiology of central nervous system (CNS) tumors and review the epidemiological data on GBM regarding gender, age, weight, height, and tumor location. The data indicate the possible influence of some anthropometric factors on the occurrence of GBM, especially in those who are male, elderly, overweight, and/or are taller. However, this review of single and small-size epidemiological studies should not be treated as definitive due to differences in the survey methods used. Detailed epidemiological registers could help identify the main at-risk groups which could then be used as homogenous study groups in research worldwide. Such research, with less distortion from various factors, could help identify the pathomechanisms that lead to the development of GBM.

Automated summary

Despite being a widely researched cancer, the full pathophysiological mechanism of GBM is still unknown and current treatment methods are not effective enough, with a median survival time of only 15 months for patients. Anthropometric factors may influence the occurrence of GBM, especially in male, elderly, overweight, and/or taller individuals. However, more detailed epidemiological registers are needed to identify at-risk groups and pave the way for more homogenous research worldwide to better understand the pathomechanisms underlying GBM development.