Background To improve equity of service, in line with the aspirations of public policy across the UK, it is imperative that we understand how sociodemographic factors affect management and care of brain tumours.

Aims To describe the relationship between sociodemographic factors and the epidemiology, clinical factors, diagnosis, treatment, patient experience and outcomes for people with brain tumours.

Methods We conducted a focused review of published literature from 2000 to 2021, exploring brain tumours and each of the patient protected characteristics, as outlined in the Equality Act 2010, in addition to other factors such as socioeconomic status, education and employment. Paediatric CNS tumours were excluded.

Results There is much research exploring the characteristics age, sex and gender, and race. However, minimal data is found discussing disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy, religion and beliefs, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, settlement status, education and employment.

Discussion Incidence and prevalence of brain tumours is based upon the tumour type, with better diag- nostic imaging and testing we are also seeing an increase in diagnosis due to better detection. Some modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors have been identified, however a better understanding of all characteristics may help improve patient outcomes and access to care.