MBTN Announces Global Webinar: The Meningioma Enigma — June 20, 2026

The Meningioma Brain Tumor Network (MBTN) is proud to announce its upcoming global webinar, The Meningioma Enigma: Science, Lived Experience & Health‑Related Quality of Life, scheduled for June 20, 2026. This landmark event brings together leading experts in neuro‑oncology, clinical research, and survivor‑thriver advocacy to illuminate the complex realities of meningioma — the most prevalent primary brain tumor worldwide.

Despite its frequency, meningioma remains widely misunderstood. Often labeled “benign,” the diagnosis can mask the profound neurological, cognitive, emotional, and quality‑of‑life challenges that survivors‑thrivers face long after treatment. MBTN’s global webinar aims to bridge this gap by uniting scientific insight with lived experience, creating a space where knowledge, empathy, and innovation meet.

A Distinguished Panel of Global Experts

This year’s webinar features an exceptional lineup of leaders whose work is shaping the future of meningioma care:

• Dr. Ekokobe Fonkem, Vice Chair of Neurology and Neuro‑Oncology at the University of Arizona, is a renowned clinician‑scientist whose work spans complex brain tumors, neuro‑oncology care models, and global health.

• Dr. Amir Najafabadi at Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands is a leading researcher advancing the understanding of meningioma biology, treatment outcomes, and patient‑centered metrics.

• Dr. Joh Evans Coleman, Founder, Meningioma Brain Tumor Network (MBTN)   A survivor‑thriver, advocate, and organizational leader dedicated to elevating the voices and needs of the meningioma community.

What the Webinar Will Explore

The session will dive into the scientific, clinical, and human dimensions of meningioma, including:

• Biological and clinical challenges

Understanding tumor behavior, treatment pathways, and emerging research.

• The lived experience of survivors‑thrivers

Highlighting the neurological, sensory, emotional, and social impacts that persist long after surgery or radiation.

• Systemic barriers in care

Examining gaps in diagnosis, access, equity, and long‑term support.

• The rising importance of HRQoL (Health‑Related Quality of Life)

Exploring why quality‑of‑life instruments are becoming essential tools in treatment planning and survivorship care.

These conversations reflect MBTN’s commitment to advancing a survivor‑centered, equity‑driven approach to brain tumor care.

Why This Webinar Matters

“Meningioma is often labeled ‘benign,’ yet its impact is anything but,” said Dr. Evans Coleman. “This webinar brings together science, lived experience, and global research to reshape how we understand and support survivors‑thrivers.”

By convening experts, survivors, caregivers, and community partners, MBTN aims to spark meaningful dialogue, elevate awareness, and accelerate progress toward better outcomes and better lives.