A leading cancer specialist has advised Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention if they notice persistent lumps, unexplained swelling, or prolonged bone pain.

Dr Nafisa Abdu, Chief Executive Officer of the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, gave the warning while marking Sarcoma Awareness Month. She stressed that these symptoms could be signs of sarcoma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer.

Dr Abdu described sarcoma as one of the “forgotten cancers” due to limited public awareness and frequent delays in diagnosis. She explained that sarcomas can develop in bones or soft connective tissues such as muscles, fat, blood vessels, and tendons. The disease affects both children and adults and is often mistaken for less serious conditions, making early detection difficult.

The expert urged people to visit the nearest healthcare facility if they have a lump that persists, unexplained swelling, prolonged bone pain, or any lump larger than five centimetres. She also called on healthcare professionals to maintain a high level of suspicion when assessing patients with such symptoms to ensure early referral and accurate diagnosis.

Dr Abdu noted that effective treatment of sarcoma requires a multidisciplinary approach involving surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists. She called for greater public awareness and urged governments, healthcare institutions, civil society organisations, and the media to intensify efforts to promote early detection and improve access to quality cancer care.

The Kano Cancer Treatment Centre remains committed to providing advanced diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and patient-centred care to improve survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients. July is observed globally as Sarcoma Awareness Month to raise awareness about the disease and encourage early detection. Dr Abdu’s message serves as a reminder that no cancer should be overlooked.