Every July, Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month helps raise awareness about a rare group of cancers that can develop in the bones and soft tissues of the body.
Because sarcoma is uncommon and its early symptoms may resemble an injury, muscle strain or ordinary swelling, some patients may delay seeking medical attention. Awareness does not mean assuming that every pain or lump is cancer. It means knowing when a symptom deserves proper medical assessment.
At Shabaha Cancer Centre, we encourage patients and families to pay attention to persistent changes in the body and seek professional guidance when something does not feel right.
What Is Sarcoma?
Sarcoma is a cancer that begins in the tissues that support, connect or surround other parts of the body. These tissues include muscles, fat, nerves, blood vessels, tendons, joints and bones.
Sarcomas are generally divided into two main groups:
Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Soft tissue sarcoma develops in tissues such as muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves, tendons and the tissues around joints. It can appear almost anywhere in the body, although it commonly affects the arms, legs, chest or abdomen.
Bone Sarcoma
Bone sarcoma is a cancer that begins in the bone itself. Examples include osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.
Primary bone cancer is different from cancer that begins in another organ, such as the breast or prostate, and later spreads to the bones. Why Sarcoma Awareness Matters
Sarcoma symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for sports injuries, growing pains, arthritis or harmless lumps. A lump may also be painless during its early stages, making it easier to overlook.
Not every lump, swelling or bone pain is caused by cancer. However, symptoms that persist, grow or become more painful should be checked by a qualified healthcare professional.
Timely assessment can help identify the cause of the symptoms and allow appropriate treatment to begin when necessary.
Possible Signs of Soft Tissue Sarcoma
The symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma depend on where the tumour develops. Possible warning signs include:
- A new lump anywhere on the body
- A lump that is gradually increasing in size
- Swelling that does not go away
- Pain, numbness or discomfort around a lump
- Persistent or worsening abdominal pain
- A feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen
- Difficulty breathing when a tumour is pressing on structures in the chest
A soft tissue sarcoma may initially appear as a painless lump under the skin. Pain can develop as the lump grows and begins pressing on nearby muscles, nerves, blood vessels or organs. Possible Signs of Bone Cancer
Bone cancer symptoms may vary depending on the bone affected. Signs that should be medically assessed include:
- Persistent or unusual pain in a bone or joint
- Swelling or a lump near a bone
- Increasing pain during movement or activity
- Joint stiffness or reduced movement
- Limping or difficulty walking
- A bone fracture occurring without a clear or significant injury
Bone pain is the most commonly reported symptom of primary bone cancer, although many other non-cancerous conditions can also cause bone pain. A medical examination is necessary to determine the cause. When Should You See a Doctor?
Speak to a healthcare professional when you notice:
- A new lump or swelling
- A lump that continues growing
- Bone or joint pain that does not improve
- Unexplained pain that keeps returning
- Difficulty walking or moving a joint
- A fracture without a clear cause
- Symptoms that are persistent, worsening or affecting daily activities
Do not ignore a symptom simply because it is painless. At the same time, try not to panic. Most lumps and body pains are not cancer, but proper assessment provides clarity and helps determine the next steps.
How Are Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with a discussion about the patient’s symptoms and medical history, followed by a physical examination.
Depending on the findings, the doctor may recommend imaging tests such as:
- An X-ray
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- MRI scan
When a suspicious mass is identified, a biopsy may be needed. During a biopsy, a small tissue sample is removed and examined by a pathologist. A biopsy is generally required to confirm whether a soft tissue mass is sarcoma and to determine the specific type of cancer. ients may also benefit from a second opinion, particularly when dealing with a rare cancer or when the diagnosis and proposed treatment plan are unclear.
How Are Sarcomas Treated?
Sarcoma treatment is personalised according to factors such as:
- The type of sarcoma
- Where the tumour is located
- The size and grade of the tumour
- Whether it has spread
- The patient’s age and general health
Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy or a combination of approaches.
Surgery is commonly used when the tumour can be safely removed. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be recommended before or after surgery, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Certain patients may also qualify for targeted treatments or immunotherapy. ause sarcomas include many different subtypes, treatment that is suitable for one patient may not be appropriate for another. Care should therefore be planned by an experienced multidisciplinary medical team.
Questions to Ask During Your Appointment
Receiving a possible or confirmed cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Writing down your questions before the appointment can make the discussion easier.
You may ask:
- What tests do I need?
- Has the diagnosis been confirmed by a biopsy?
- What type and stage of sarcoma is this?
- Has the cancer spread to another part of the body?
- What treatment options are available?
- What are the expected benefits and side effects?
- Should I seek a second opinion?
- Will I need chemotherapy or radiotherapy?
- Who will help coordinate my appointments and treatment?
You may also attend the appointment with a trusted family member or caregiver who can provide emotional support and help you remember the information discussed.
Compassionate Cancer Care at Shabaha Cancer Centre
Shabaha Cancer Centre provides personalised oncology care for adults and adolescents in Nairobi. Our services include medical oncology consultations, chemotherapy reviews, radiotherapy planning, second opinions, diagnostic coordination, treatment scheduling and patient navigation.
Our team works with patients and families to explain their diagnosis, review available treatment options and guide them through the different stages of cancer care.
If you have a persistent lump, unexplained swelling, ongoing bone pain or concerns about a previous diagnosis, schedule an oncology consultation for professional assessment.
Book an appointment with Shabaha Cancer Centre
Location: Valley View Park Office, Limuru Road, Nairobi
Telephone: +254 769 187 574
Email: info@shabahacancercenter.co.ke
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Early attention to unusual symptoms can make an important difference. This July, help raise awareness by sharing information about sarcoma and encouraging friends and family members not to ignore persistent changes in their bodies.
This article is intended for general health education and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
