Our Disability Lawyers help people who suffer from Brain Tumours & have been Wrongfully Denied their Long-Term Disability Benefits. Always FREE Consultations and you Never Pay Upfront.
Brain tumours are created when a mass of cells accumulates and becomes a tumour, created by the unnatural growth of cells. These tumours can be benign or malignant, with malignant tumours also referred to as cancerous tumours. Across the country, current research suggests that 3,200 Canadians will be diagnosed with either brain or spinal cord cancer, and another 2,500 Canadians will die due to these cancers.
Brain cancer can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to work. Depending on the location and severity of the tumor, symptoms can vary widely and may include headaches, seizures, vision or speech problems, and difficulty with memory or concentration. These symptoms can make it challenging to perform even simple tasks, let alone more complex work-related activities. In addition, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that can further affect a person’s ability to work. Overall, brain cancer can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life and ability to maintain employment – and as a result, require long-term disability benefits to assist them financially month-to-month.
Remember – if you have been denied your long-term disability benefits you have the right to your own long-term disability lawyer. Call our Disability Lawyers today at 1-844-4-DISABILITY for your FREE CONSULTATION or alternatively, send us a message through our website and we will be happy to get right back to you and schedule your FREE CONSULTATION and explain your legal rights to you, and what remedy you may be entitled to. Remember – if we work together, our brain tumour disability lawyers NEVER ask for money upfront, under any circumstances. Our disability lawyers only get paid if you get paid.
Brain cancer usually starts in the areas of the brain where the cells grow and divide most quickly. These areas are called brain tumour suppressor gene regions. The brain has several brain tumour suppressor gene regions, including one near the base of the brain called the cerebellum, which controls movement and balance. The other brain tumour suppressor gene regions are in the cerebral cortex and the meninges, which are responsible for thought, memory, and emotion. The meninges are the tissue layers covering the brain and spinal cord.
Although the causes of brain cancer are not fully understood, research has found that certain risk factors can make an individual more susceptible to developing brain cancer, including:
Age: brain cancer is most common in adults over the age of 60
Gender: slightly more common in men than in women. In Canada, brain cancer rates are about 20% higher for men
Family history: as with other cancers, individuals with a family history of brain cancer have a slightly higher risk of developing brain cancer themselves, particularly if they have a close family member who has had brain cancer.
Radiation exposure: ionizing radiation is a type of high-energy radiation that can damage DNA and has been linked to an increased risk of brain cancer. This includes exposure to X-rays, gamma rays and ultraviolet (UV) light
Cellular phone use: although more research is needed, some studies have suggested that long-term exposure to electromagnetic radiation from cellular phones may increase the risk of brain cancer.
Exposure to certain viruses and chemicals: individuals exposed to certain viruses, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV), and chemicals, such as benzene, are at a higher risk of brain cancer.
Certain medical conditions: brain cancer is more common in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as neurofibromatosis and HIV/AIDS
It’s unclear exactly why brain tumours develop, whether benign or cancerous. It’s suspected that genetic mutations that result in brain cells multiplying uncontrollably may be related to why tumours begin to form. It’s possible that some cancers develop in response to certain stimuli – such as exposure to radiation or chemicals – it’s purported that genetic material mutates, which initiates the process through which the unnatural duplication of cells which leads to cancer begins.
Brain tumours are classified into one of two categories, benign and malignant (or cancerous). There are many different types of brain tumours, each with its own set of symptoms, depending on where in the brain the tumour is growing. These are:
Astrocytomas: these are the most common type of brain cancer, which begins in star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes. Astrocytomas can be low-grade (slow-growing), or they can be high-grade (fast-growing).
Glioblastomas: another type of brain cancer that begins in glial cells, which are non-neuronal cells supporting the function of neurons. Glioblastomas are high-grade brain tumours and are usually aggressive.
Oligodendrogliomas: these develop in oligodendrocytes, which are cells that create the myelin sheath surrounding and protecting nerve cells. Myelin allows electrical signals to travel quickly along nerve cells. Oligodendrogliomas are usually slow-growing brain tumours.
Ependymomas: brain tumours that develop in ependymal cells, which line the cavities in the brain where cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is produced. CSF is a clear liquid that fills and protects the brain and spinal cord. Ependymomas can grow anywhere in the brain or spinal cord where CSF is found.
Meningiomas: brain tumours that develop in the meninges, which are the layers of tissue that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Meningiomas usually grow slowly.
Craniopharyngiomas: develop near the pituitary gland, which is a small, pea-sized gland at the base of the brain that produces hormones that help control growth, blood pressure, metabolism and other essential body functions. Craniopharyngiomas are slow-growing brain tumours.
Brain cancer can present with a wide array of symptoms, depending on the size, location and rate of growth of the tumour. For this reason, different individuals with brain cancer can experience very different symptoms, depending on the part of the brain that is experiencing stress due to the tumour’s growth. Different areas of the brain are responsible for different senses and cognitive abilities, and brain cancer symptoms correspond with those senses and abilities. These symptoms include:
There are several different methods commonly used in the treatment of brain cancer. Three of the most common are surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These cancer treatment methods are commonly relied upon because of doctors’ proven success when using these techniques. However, brain cancer treatments can also result in side effects that may have a long-lasting impact and possibly contribute to long-term disability.
Surgery – brain cancer surgery is one of the most common treatment methods. For a low-grade brain tumour, there are instances in which surgery is the only form of treatment necessary because the affected area is limited to within the brain. Most complicated cases of brain cancer, particularly in high-grade cases that have begun to metastasize, may require adjuvant treatment in addition to surgery. Brain cancer patients can experience some side effects of surgery. Following the surgery, there can be some side effects that come as a result of the recovery from the operation, as well as side effects that stem from the surgeon interacting with the brain during the operation:
Over time, some of these side effects can continue. Physical weakness can develop into an overall inability to walk, impacting physical dexterity and physical abilities like lifting, pulling or pushing objects. Dizziness and lack of balance can lead to a greater risk of falls, which could cause serious injuries. Changes in behaviour or personality might make it difficult for an individual to return to their previous job or even make it difficult for them to function in social settings. Confusion and difficulty speaking can also make working very difficult or impossible.
Radiation Therapy – the use of high-energy x-rays or other rays of particle matter is known as radiation therapy. It can be used to cause a malignant tumour to slow or stop its growth or spread within the body. One of the most traditional forms of brain cancer treatment, radiation therapy involves either sending the rays of radiation towards the malignant either from inside or outside the body. Modern technology allows doctors to be much more precise about where they aim radiation, resulting in more accurate results and less side effects as a result of radiation.
As a result of radiation being directed at the brain, there are a number of side effects that brain cancer patients commonly experience:
As a risk factor for developing cancer itself, radiation is a dangerous substance that is always handled with care. Although it is an effective tool in brain cancer treatment, it’s common for patients to experience different side effects as a result of exposure to radiation to their brains.
Chemotherapy – one of the most common forms of brain cancer treatment, and cancer treatment in general, chemotherapy involves the intake of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often used as either a primary treatment method or a follow-up to surgery, to ensure that there are no remaining cancer cells.
Hair loss is perhaps the most well-known side effect of chemotherapy, but there are many other side effects that patients with brain cancer can experience after taking chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is also taken in rounds, meaning that the patient’s weakening body may make them increasingly susceptible to different side effects and symptoms with each passing round of chemotherapy treatment. Along with hair loss, chemotherapy can result in a number of different side effects:
Chemotherapy remains one of the most effective overall treatment tools for brain cancer, which is why doctors continue to rely on it. However, it’s without a doubt that the side effects that brain cancer patients sometimes experience also make chemotherapy one of the toughest courses of treatment to live through.
According to the American Brain Tumor Association, brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children under the age of 20 and the fourth-leading cause of cancer death in adults. In Canada, brain cancer is the 12th most common form of cancer and has cost the lives of over 2,500 people in 2017. Despite brain cancer’s prevalence, research surrounding brain cancer and its effects on those who live with it is still in its relative infancy. However, what we do know is that brain cancer can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to work and function in day-to-day life.
Brain cancer can significantly interfere with an individual’s ability to work and maintain employment due to its impact on various cognitive, physical, and emotional aspects of an individual’s life. The extent of interference depends on the location and severity of the tumor, the type of cancer, and the treatment protocol being followed.
Firstly, cognitive impairment is a common issue faced by those with brain cancer. As the tumor grows, it may exert pressure on surrounding brain tissue, resulting in cognitive deficits such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, problems with decision-making, and language processing issues. These cognitive impairments can make it challenging for individuals to effectively perform tasks that require mental agility, multitasking, or complex problem-solving skills, ultimately affecting their work performance and productivity.
Secondly, brain cancer can lead to physical symptoms that affect an individual’s capacity to work. Seizures, muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, and vision problems are common symptoms associated with brain tumors. These physical challenges can limit an individual’s ability to perform tasks that require manual dexterity, fine motor skills, or physical stamina. Additionally, persistent fatigue, a common side effect of both the cancer itself and its treatments, can make it difficult for patients to maintain a regular work schedule or carry out labor-intensive tasks.
Emotional and psychological well-being is another important aspect that can be compromised by brain cancer. Dealing with the diagnosis, undergoing treatment, and coping with the uncertainty of the future can all contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression. These emotional challenges can affect an individual’s motivation, concentration, and overall ability to function effectively in a work environment. Furthermore, the stigma associated with cancer and its impact on interpersonal relationships can make it harder for individuals to maintain a supportive social network at work.
Lastly, the treatment for brain cancer often involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. These treatments can lead to side effects such as hair loss, skin reactions, and nausea, which can impact a person’s self-esteem and overall quality of life. The time-consuming nature of medical appointments and recovery periods may also require individuals to take extended time off work, which can be disruptive to both their professional and personal lives.
Yes – in most cases, brain cancer does qualify for long-term disability but you need to speak to one of our long-term disability lawyers to learn your options. In most cases, of an individual cannot complete the substantial duties of his or her employment then that individual will most likely qualify to receive long-term disability benefits for the first two years after the onset of their disability.
After two years, an individual can be approved for long-term disability benefits if he or she cannot maintain any employment for which he or she is reasonably suited by way of education, training or experience.
If you have been denied work disability benefits because of brain cancer, it is important to seek legal help. A disability lawyer can review your case and determine if you have a claim. Brain cancer survivors should not have to face the challenges of brain cancer alone, and a disability lawyer can help you get the benefits you need.
Is your disability insurance company telling you to submit an appeal with “new” medical evidence? We suggest that you do not. Appealing to the disability company on your own will only lead to more delays. For many, submitting an internal appeal to the same insurance company – and not to an impartial or independent body also seems quite unfair. Instead of filing an internal appeal, contact our long-term disability lawyers to dicuss your case and how we can help get your long-term disability benefits back on track.
Our brain cancer lawyers are here to help you secure the disability benefits that you need and deserve so that you can focus on your recovery without added financial strain.
Stop struggling with a faceless insurance company – and call our Long-Term Disability Lawyers to schedule your free consultation today. We represent claimants suffering from bipolar disorder all over Canada and we can help you get your long-term disability benefits back on track. Our consultations are 100% free – and if you decide to work with our long-term disability lawyers, the fee is free. We do not charge our clients anything unless we win their case. We are happy to provide you the legal advice you need in order for you to make an informed decision about your own particular situation.
There are several ways to book your free consultation with our Long-Term Disability Lawyers:
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Brain cancer can lead to cognitive impairments such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, problems with decision-making, and language processing issues. These cognitive deficits can make it challenging for individuals to effectively perform tasks that require mental agility, multitasking, or complex problem-solving skills, ultimately affecting their work performance and productivity.
Common physical symptoms associated with brain tumors, such as seizures, muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, and vision problems, can limit an individual’s ability to perform tasks that require manual dexterity, fine motor skills, or physical stamina. Persistent fatigue is another factor that can make it difficult for patients to maintain a regular work schedule or carry out labor-intensive tasks.
Dealing with a brain cancer diagnosis, undergoing treatment, and coping with the uncertainty of the future can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression. These emotional challenges can affect an individual’s motivation, concentration, and overall ability to function effectively in a work environment. The stigma associated with cancer and its impact on interpersonal relationships can also make it harder for individuals to maintain a supportive social network at work.
Brain cancer treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, can lead to side effects such as hair loss, skin reactions, and nausea, which can impact a person’s self-esteem and overall quality of life. The time-consuming nature of medical appointments and recovery periods may also require individuals to take extended time off work, which can be disruptive to both their professional and personal lives.
Yes, individuals diagnosed with brain cancer may be eligible for long-term disability benefits, depending on the severity of their condition, the impact on their ability to work, and the specific requirements of their insurance policy.
When evaluating a brain cancer disability claim, factors such as the type and stage of cancer, the severity of symptoms, the impact on cognitive and physical functioning, and the individual’s ability to perform work-related tasks will be considered. Medical documentation and supporting evidence from healthcare professionals will be necessary to validate the claim.
The duration of long-term disability benefits for individuals with brain cancer can vary based on factors such as the specific disability policy, the individual’s progress, and the prognosis of their condition. Benefits may continue until the policy’s maximum benefit period, the individual reaches retirement age, or their condition improves to the point where they can return to work.
Yes, individuals with brain cancer may be eligible for long-term disability benefits while undergoing treatment if their condition and treatment side effects significantly impair their ability to work. Medical documentation from treating physicians detailing the individual’s functional limitations and the impact of treatment on their ability to perform work-related tasks will be required.
Although we cannot answer for other long-term disability firms, our long-term disability lawyers never charge consultation fees. Consultations are 100% free – always.
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