Hyderabad, July 23rd 2026: Although sarcomas account for only about 1–2% of all adult cancers, delayed diagnosis continues to be a significant challenge in India, often resulting in patients seeking treatment only after the disease has progressed. As the /world observes Sarcoma Awareness Month this July, Dr. Kishore B. Reddy, Renowned Ortho Oncologist, Orthopedic Surgeon & Managing Director, Amor Hospitals, has called for greater public awareness about one of the most overlooked yet aggressive forms of cancer.
Sarcomas are cancers that arise from the body’s connective (mesenchymal) tissues, including bones, muscles, fat, fibrous tissue, blood vessels and nerves. They are broadly classified into bone sarcomas and soft tissue sarcomas, with more than 70 recognised subtypes. Unlike the more common carcinomas, which arise from organs such as the breast, lung and colon and commonly spread through the lymphatic system, sarcomas have a greater tendency to spread through the bloodstream. Consequently, the lungs are among the most common sites of distant spread.
Commenting on the occasion of Sarcoma Awareness Month, Dr. Kishore B. Reddy said, “Sarcomas may be rare, but they are among the most aggressive cancers we treat. One of the biggest challenges is that patients often ignore a painless lump or persistent bone pain, assuming it is a simple swelling, muscle strain or an old injury. Unfortunately, this delay allows the disease to progress. Early diagnosis not only improves survival but, in many cases, also helps preserve the affected limb and enables patients to return to a normal quality of life.”
Dr. Reddy explained that most sarcomas develop without a clearly identifiable cause. While the majority arise spontaneously, a small proportion may occur in people with certain inherited genetic conditions, following previous radiation therapy, or from specific pre-existing bone disorders. He emphasised that diagnosis requires appropriate imaging, followed by a biopsy, and that treatment should be planned by a multidisciplinary team based on the type, location and stage of the disease.
“Unlike many common cancers, sarcomas often spread through the bloodstream, making timely diagnosis extremely important. The encouraging news is that advances in imaging, limb-salvage surgery, precision oncology, chemotherapy and reconstructive techniques have significantly improved outcomes. Today, many patients can be treated successfully while preserving both function and quality of life. However, the key is reaching a specialised cancer centre before the disease spreads,” he added.
Dr. Reddy urged people not to ignore a lump that continues to increase in size, unexplained persistent bone pain, or a swelling located deep beneath the muscles. While most such swellings are not cancerous, timely evaluation by a specialist can make the difference between early, curative treatment and advanced disease.
“Sarcoma treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach involving orthopaedic oncology, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology and rehabilitation specialists. Every patient’s disease is unique, and personalised treatment planning is essential to achieving the best possible outcomes. Greater awareness among the public and primary care physicians can ensure that patients receive the right treatment at the right time,” Dr. Reddy concluded.
