Cancer Centre Warns Nigerians Over Hidden Signs of Deadly Sarcoma

(Cancer. Photo Credit: Live science)

The Chief Executive Officer of the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, Dr. Nafisa Abdu, has urged Nigerians to seek prompt medical attention if they notice persistent lumps, unexplained swelling or prolonged bone pain, warning that such symptoms could point to sarcoma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer.

She gave the advice in a statement issued Thursday to mark Sarcoma Awareness Month, stressing that early diagnosis offers the best chance for successful treatment and improved survival.

She described sarcoma as one of the world’s “forgotten cancers,” citing limited public awareness and the frequent delays in diagnosis as major challenges.

According to Abdu, sarcomas represent a rare group of cancers in which malignant cells develop within the bones or soft connective tissues of the body, including muscles, fat, blood vessels, tendons and cartilage, and can affect both children and adults.

She noted that these cancers are often mistaken for less serious conditions, which complicates timely diagnosis.

She advised the public to seek medical evaluation at the nearest healthcare facility upon noticing a persistent lump, unexplained swelling, prolonged bone pain, or any lump exceeding five centimetres in size.

She also urged healthcare professionals to remain highly alert when assessing patients presenting with such symptoms, to ensure early referral and accurate diagnosis.

Abdu explained that effective sarcoma treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, physiotherapists and other specialists working collaboratively to deliver comprehensive care.

She called on governments, healthcare institutions, civil society organisations and the media to step up efforts toward promoting early detection and expanding access to quality cancer care, describing this year’s awareness month as a reminder that no cancer should be overlooked.

She reaffirmed the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre’s commitment to providing advanced diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and patient-centred care aimed at boosting survival rates and improving quality of life for cancer patients.

Sarcoma is a rare cancer that develops in the body’s bones or connective tissues, including muscles, fat, tendons, cartilage and blood vessels.

Because its symptoms often mimic those of less serious conditions, diagnosis is frequently delayed, which reduces the likelihood of successful treatment.

July is observed globally as Sarcoma Awareness Month, aimed at raising awareness of the disease and encouraging early detection.