The Chief Executive Officer of the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, Dr. Nafisa Abdu, has urged Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention if they notice persistent lumps, unexplained swelling or prolonged bone pain.
Abdu warned that such symptoms could indicate sarcoma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer.
He gave the advice in a statement issued on Thursday to mark Sarcoma Awareness Month, stressing that early diagnosis remains the best chance of successful treatment and improved survival.
She described sarcoma as one of the world’s “forgotten cancers” because of limited public awareness and the frequent delays in diagnosing the disease.
“Sarcomas are a rare group of cancers in which malignant cells develop in the bones or soft connective tissues of the body.
“These cancers can arise in the muscles, fat, blood vessels, tendons, cartilage and other supporting tissues, affecting both children and adults,” she said.
According to her, sarcomas are often mistaken for less serious health conditions, making timely diagnosis difficult.
She advised members of the public to seek medical evaluation at the nearest healthcare facility if they develop a lump that persists, unexplained swelling, prolonged bone pain or any lump larger than five centimetres.Related Ne
Abdu also urged healthcare professionals to maintain a high level of suspicion when assessing patients with such symptoms to ensure early referral and accurate diagnosis.
She noted 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 care.
Calling for greater public awareness, the cancer specialist urged governments, healthcare institutions, civil society organisations and the media to intensify efforts to promote early detection and improve access to quality cancer care.
“This year’s Sarcoma Awareness Month serves as a reminder that no cancer should be forgotten,” she said.
She reiterated the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre’s commitment to providing advanced diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and patient-centred care aimed at improving survival rates and the quality of life of 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 resemble those of less serious conditions, diagnosis is frequently delayed, reducing the chances of successful treatment.
July is observed globally as Sarcoma Awareness Month to raise awareness about the disease and encourage early detection.
