Toby with Heather Trueman and Julie Dixon from BANA
Toby with Heather Trueman and Julie Dixon from BANA

The British Acoustic Neuroma Association (BANA), a National charity based in Chesterfield, was visited recently by the local MP, Toby Perkins to discuss the work BANA does in providing support for those diagnosed with acoustic neuromas and how Toby can help them. BANA is the UK’s only national charity providing support and information for people affected by acoustic neuroma and the interrelated conditions, symptoms and effects.

An acoustic neuroma is a non-cancerous tumour of the nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain. Acoustic neuromas usually grow slowly and do not spread to other parts of the brain. The most common symptoms are loss of hearing in the affected ear, a buzzing or ringing noise, feeling dizzy and problems with balance. Depending on the size of the tumour, treatment can range from keeping an eye on it, radiotherapy or surgery to remove it. Surgery will result in a loss of hearing in the affected ear.

BANA provide a support service to those who have been diagnosed with acoustic neuroma allowing people to interact with other patients who have the same diagnosis. This prevents the sense of isolation that being diagnosed with a rare condition can bring. This does not have to be face to face, BANA also provide virtual platforms, such as a website forum and social media groups, to enable patients to interact with each other around the county.

Toby said: “I think it is great that a National charity, like BANA, have decided to have their headquarters in Chesterfield. Acoustic neuroma is a rare condition and I welcome the work BANA do in raising awareness of it and putting patients in touch with each other. Since my visit to BANA I have asked the Secretary of State for Health about acoustic neuroma and I await his answer.”

You can find out more information on acoustic neuroma and BANA at their website https://www.bana-uk.com/

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