Is a Meningioma Considered Cancer?

Hi Court! A meningioma is a tumor that grows in the lining of the brain or spinal cord. This lining is called the meninges, and it protects your brain and spinal cord like a soft cushion. Most meningiomas (90%) are not cancer. They tend to grow slowly and may not cause problems right away. Many people have them without even knowing it. If it’s small and not causing problems, your doctor may just watch it with regular scans. If you would like more information, we have oncology nurse practitioners you can speak to, just scroll down the page from Home Screen of app to find the Ask Outcomes4Me box to get in touch.

Meningiomas are typically classified as benign (non-cancerous) brain tumors, though the classification can sometimes feel confusing when they're discussed in brain cancer communities. The "watch and wait" approach with regular monitoring that's being used is a common and appropriate strategy for many meningiomas, especially when they're stable and not causing symptoms. Many community members here have experience with similar situations and may be able to share their perspectives on navigating this type of diagnosis.