Urgent Cancer Warning: Seek Help for Lumps and Pain

Dr. Nafisa Abdu, Chief Executive Officer of the Kano Cancer Treatment Centre, has urged Nigerians to seek immediate medical attention if they notice persistent lumps, unexplained swelling, or prolonged bone pain.

She warned that these symptoms could indicate sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. In a statement issued on Thursday to mark Sarcoma Awareness Month, Abdu emphasized that early diagnosis remains the best chance for successful treatment and improved survival rates.

She described sarcoma as a group of cancers that develop in the body's bone and connective tissues, including muscle, fat, blood vessels, tendons, and cartilage. Abdu noted that sarcoma is often mistaken for less serious health conditions, which can delay diagnosis and reduce treatment success.

She advised the public to seek medical evaluation if they develop a lump larger than five centimeters. Additionally, she called for healthcare professionals to maintain a high level of suspicion when assessing patients' symptoms to ensure early referral and accurate diagnosis.