<article xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" article-type="Research Article" dtd-version="1.0"><front><journal-meta><journal-id journal-id-type="pmc">iarms</journal-id><journal-id journal-id-type="pubmed">IARMS</journal-id><journal-id journal-id-type="publisher">IARMS</journal-id><issn>2709-3255</issn></journal-meta><article-meta><article-id pub-id-type="doi">https://doi.org/10.47310/iarms.2023.v04i02.005</article-id><title-group><article-title>Unlocking Minds: Exploring Public Understanding of Brain Tumors in District Shimla</article-title></title-group><contrib-group><contrib contrib-type="author"><name><given-names>NainaKumari</given-names><surname>Negi</surname></name></contrib></contrib-group><contrib-group><contrib contrib-type="author"><name><given-names>Divyajyoti</given-names><surname>Verma</surname></name></contrib></contrib-group><contrib-group><contrib contrib-type="author"><name><given-names>Pankaj</given-names><surname>Sharma</surname></name></contrib></contrib-group><aff-id id="aff-a" /><abstract>Brain tumors represent a complex and serious public health concern due to their significant impact on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. Public awareness and knowledge play a crucial role in early detection, timely treatment, and improved outcomes. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and knowledge regarding brain tumors among the general public of District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted from April to July 2023 among 400 adults aged 18 years and above who had been residing in the district for at least one year. Data were collected using a validated structured Google Form questionnaire consisting of demographic variables and 20 knowledge-based questions on brain tumors. Data analysis was performed using Epi Info V7, applying descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that while a majority of participants had heard of brain tumors, detailed knowledge regarding risk factors, types, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and support resources was limited. Overall, 25.75% of participants demonstrated very good knowledge, 35.5% had good knowledge, 25.25% had fair knowledge, and 13.5% exhibited poor knowledge regarding brain tumors. The study highlights notable gaps in public understanding, particularly in areas related to prevention, diagnosis, and comprehensive management. These findings emphasize the need for targeted health education and awareness programs to improve public knowledge and promote early detection and informed decision-making related to brain tumors in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.</abstract></article-meta></front><body /><back /></article>