The Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, KCTC, has called on Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention for persistent lumps, unexplained swelling, prolonged bone pain or any lump measuring more than five centimetres, warning that delayed diagnosis of sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, significantly reduces the chances of successful treatment.
The Chief Executive Officer of the centre, Dr Nafisa Abdu, made the appeal in a statement issued to mark July as Sarcoma Awareness Month, stressing that early detection and prompt diagnosis remain the most effective ways to improve survival rates among patients.
She described sarcoma as a rare but serious group of cancers often referred to as the “forgotten cancer” because of low public awareness and the frequent delays in diagnosis.
According to Ms Abdu, sarcomas develop when malignant cells form in the bones or soft connective tissues of the body, including muscles, fat, blood vessels, tendons, cartilage and other supporting tissues. She explained that the disease affects both children and adults and is often difficult to distinguish from other forms of cancer, particularly when it develops in internal organs.
“The true incidence of sarcoma is likely underestimated because many cases are difficult to identify and diagnose early,” she said.
She noted that one of the biggest obstacles in managing the disease is delayed diagnosis, as many of its symptoms are often mistaken for less serious medical conditions.
Ms Abdu urged healthcare professionals across the country to maintain a high index of suspicion when evaluating patients presenting with persistent lumps, unexplained swelling or prolonged bone pain, stressing that timely referrals and accurate diagnosis are essential to successful treatment.
She explained that effective treatment of sarcoma requires a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, physiotherapists and other specialists working together to provide comprehensive and personalised care.
The KCTC chief executive called on governments, healthcare institutions, civil society organisations, the media and the general public to intensify efforts to raise awareness about sarcoma and improve access to quality cancer care.
“This year’s Sarcoma Awareness Month reminds us that no cancer should be forgotten. We must work together to increase awareness, encourage early diagnosis and ensure that patients have access to quality treatment,” she said.
She advised anyone experiencing persistent lumps, unexplained swelling or prolonged bone pain not to ignore the symptoms or wait until they worsen, noting that early medical evaluation could be lifesaving.
Ms Abdu added that the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre remains committed to delivering world-class, patient-centred cancer care through advanced diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and multidisciplinary clinical expertise aimed at improving survival rates and enhancing the quality of life of cancer patients.