India has been experiencing an alarming surge in cancer cases, exceeding global averages. According to health experts, if this trend continues, India may become the 'Cancer Capital of the World'.
World Health Organization (WHO) statistics reveal that in 2022, India saw a staggering 14.1 lakh new cancer cases, resulting in 9.1 lakh deaths. Breast cancer emerged as the most common type, accounting for a significant portion of these cases. The recent diagnosis of actor Hina Khan with breast cancer has underscored the urgent need for targeted interventions to deal with this medical condition.
Mathrumbhumi English reached out to Dr Srimanth B S, Lead Consultant for Orthopaedic Oncology at Manipal Hospital in Old Airport Road, Bengaluru, to discuss early detection and effective treatment options, and to create increased awareness on Sarcoma. Read on...
What is sarcoma? What causes it?
Sarcoma is an aggressive form of cancer that develops in bones and soft tissues. While rare in adults (about 2% of all cancers), it accounts for 20% of all solid cancers in children. Soft tissue sarcomas are more commonly seen in adult patients. Although we are yet to fully understand the exact cause of sarcomas, researchers believe that damage to DNA from various factors may play a role, but this is not conclusive.
What are the common symptoms of sarcoma that people should be aware of?
The key symptoms to watch for include:
- Pain: Particularly noticeable at night or during rest. In children, difficulty sleeping due to bone pain is a red flag.
- Swelling: A lump larger than a lemon (5 cm) that grows rapidly.
- Fractures: Occurring after minor falls or injuries.
- General symptoms: Weakness, fatigue, or neurological issues.
How is it diagnosed?
Doctors use a step-by-step approach which will include:
- X-rays
- Blood tests
- MRI and/or CT scans
- Biopsy (minimally invasive tissue sampling)
- Whole-body scans (bone scan or PET CT) for staging
What are the treatment options for sarcoma?
A team of cancer specialists creates a tailored treatment plan, which may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Limb-sparing surgery
- Radiotherapy (for specific types like Ewing's sarcoma & Soft tissue sarcoma)
Is surgery the definitive treatment for all sarcomas?
Surgery is crucial for most sarcomas. It is often the only treatment needed for low-grade sarcomas, while high-grade sarcomas may require additional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation.
Is Sarcoma more life-threatening when compared to the more common cancers?
Sarcomas can be more life-threatening than some common cancers due to their tendency to spread aggressively if left untreated.
Can sarcoma be cured?
Yes, sarcomas can be cured, especially when caught early. Early diagnosis and management of the disease significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
How can I stay away from the risk of sarcoma?
Currently, there are no known preventive measures. Early detection remains the best approach when it comes to treating cancer. Thus, look for warning signs and report to your doctor as soon as possible.
Please explain recent advances in sarcoma treatment.
Recent advances in the treatment of bone sarcomas include technology-assisted precise tumor removal, 3D-printed custom prostheses, and bone recycling techniques. Minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment methods have further made it easier to detect bone sarcomas early on, improving the rate of survival.
Is the treatment expensive?
Sarcoma treatment can be expensive due to the need for multiple specialized treatments and custom-made implants or instruments. Costs vary widely depending on the individual case and treatment plan.