July is Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month. This year, 2024, the theme for Sarcoma Cancer Awareness Month is “Raising Awareness to Create Survivors.”

Why Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness is needed?

·         To build strong support network for Sarcoma patients and their families

·         To understand the Sarcoma and Bone Cancer

·         Early detection for better treatment outcomes

·         To know the risk factors to prevent Sarcoma

·         Their Signs and symptoms for early diagnosis

·         Awareness about the Diagnosis and Treatment and the challenges faced by patients and their families

• Awareness campaigns emphasize the importance of regular check-ups and prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms.
• To increase the survivor rate

·         Funding Research: Awareness campaigns help raise funds for research into new treatments and potential cures.

This blog aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of sarcoma and bone cancer, their symptoms, treatments, and the importance of early detection.

What is Sarcoma ?
Sarcoma is a type of cancer that originates in the body's connective tissues, which include bones, muscles, fat, blood vessels, and nerves. Average age for diagnosis in children and adolescents is 10 to 20 years and above 50 years in Old age. There are two main types of sarcoma:

Soft Tissue Sarcomas: These can develop in soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, fat, nerves, blood vessels, and deep skin tissues. Examples include:

• Leiomyosarcoma
• Liposarcoma
• Synovial sarcoma
• Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST)
• Angiosarcoma

1.      Bone Sarcoma: Sarcomas that develop in bones themselves are relatively rare but can be highly aggressive. Examples include:

·         Osteosarcoma (most common primary bone cancer, often found in children and young adults) . Osteosarcoma: This is the most common type of bone cancer, typically affecting teenagers and young adults. It usually starts in the long bones of the arms and legs..Another form is common in adults who have Paget’s disease.

·         Chondrosarcoma (arises from cartilage cells)

·         Ewing sarcoma (typically affects bones and soft tissues in children and young adults)

Signs and Symptoms of Sarcoma:

Early symptoms of sarcoma and bone cancer can be subtle and often mistaken for other conditions. Common symptoms include:

·         Swelling or a lump that may or may not be painful.

·         Pain, particularly if the tumor presses on nerves or muscles.

·         Difficulty with movement or function of affected body parts.

·         Unexplained fractures due to weakened bones

·         Abdominal pain

·         Fatigue and weight loss

·         Fever

·         Night Sweating

Risk factors

1.      Age: Some types of sarcomas are more common in specific age groups. For instance, osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma are more common in children and young adults.

2.      Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation therapy for other cancers may increase the risk of developing sarcomas in the treated area.

3.      Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as vinyl chloride (used in plastics manufacturing) and dioxin, has been linked to an increased risk of developing sarcomas.

4.      Inherited Syndromes: Inherited genetic syndromes that predispose individuals to develop Sarcoma such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome , neurofibromatosis type 1, and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and hereditary retinoblastoma, can increase the risk of sarcomas.

5.      Chronic Lymphedema: Long-term swelling (lymphedema) can increase the risk of developing a rare type of sarcoma called lymphangiosarcoma.

6.      Paget's Disease: This bone disorder can increase the risk of developing osteosarcoma.

7. Exposure to viruses. The virus called human herpesvirus 8 can increase the risk of a type of sarcoma called Kaposi's sarcoma in people with weakened immune systems.

Diagnostic Tests

Early detection is crucial for improving the prognosis of sarcoma and bone cancer. Diagnostic methods include:

·         Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans help visualize the tumor's location and size.

·         Biopsy: A sample of the tumor tissue is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.

·         Blood Tests: Certain markers in the blood can indicate the presence of cancer.

Treatment Options

The treatment for sarcoma and bone cancer depends on the type, location, and stage of the cancer. Common treatments include:

Conventional Treatment

·         Surgery

·         Radiation Therapy

·         Chemotherapy

·         Targeted Therapy

Other multiple Treatment options are based on Ayurveda ,Homeopathy and Unani.

General Risk Reduction and Prevention  Strategies:

• Know Your Body: Be aware of any unusual lumps, pain, or changes in your bones or soft tissues.
• Seek Medical Advice: Don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any symptoms or have concerns.
• Stay Informed: Reliable sources such as cancer organizations and healthcare providers provide accurate information and support.

• Regular Medical Check-ups: Early detection through regular medical exams can help in identifying sarcomas and bone cancers at an earlier, more treatable stage.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet may help reduce the overall risk of cancer.
• Avoidance of Environmental Hazards: Minimizing exposure to known carcinogens and following safety guidelines in workplaces can reduce the risk associated with chemical exposures.

Understanding these risk factors can help individuals and healthcare providers identify those at higher risk and take appropriate steps for early detection and prevention.

Ayurveda Approach-  The concept and treatment of sarcoma and bone cancer:

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a holistic approach to understanding and managing sarcoma and bone cancer. Ayurveda views sarcoma and bone cancer as multifactorial diseases influenced by dosha imbalances, toxins, and tissue-level dysfunction. Its treatment approach involves restoring balance through herbal remedies, detoxification, diet, lifestyle modifications, and mind-body practices, aiming to support overall health and potentially complement conventional medical treatments. Ayurveda utilizes a wide range of herbs known for their anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating, and detoxifying properties. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Guduchi, and Tulsi are commonly used either alone or in combination to support the body's natural healing processes and to strengthen immunity.

D. S. Research Centre  aims to prescribe Nutrient Energy Medicines based on Ancient Ayurveda for Sarcoma and Bone Cancer. We consider Ancient Ayurveda to be an effective alternate Cancer treatment owing to the fact that it focuses on the root or primary cause, improves the quality of life, nourishes the body, and helps in the maintenance of a positive existence. Furthermore, the treatment does not induce harmful side effects and the medications are naturally derived and beneficial for the body, even in the long run.