Interviewer: Hello, Dr. Pushpak Chirmade, it’s a pleasure to have you with us today. As one of the best oncologists and cancer specialists in Navi Mumbai and Thane, could you help us understand a rare type of cancer – sarcoma?
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: Absolutely, I’d be happy to. Sarcomas are malignant tumors that originate from mesenchymal tissues, which include bones, muscles, cartilage, fat, and blood vessels. They represent only about 1% of all adult cancers and about 15% of cancers in children.
Interviewer: That’s quite rare indeed. Could you tell us more about the types of sarcomas?
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: Sarcomas are broadly categorized into two main groups: soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas. Soft tissue sarcomas develop in the soft tissues of the body, while bone sarcomas start in the bones.
Interviewer: What are the symptoms we should look out for?
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: Symptoms for soft tissue sarcomas might include a noticeable lump or mass, pain, swelling, or tenderness. For bone sarcomas, symptoms often include localized bone pain, swelling, or tenderness.
Interviewer: How is sarcoma diagnosed?
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: The diagnostic process typically involves a medical history and physical examination, imaging tests, a biopsy, and in some cases, genetic testing.
Interviewer: What are the treatment options available for sarcoma?
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: Treatment depends on several factors, but common strategies include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
- Surgery: Often the first-line treatment, surgery aims to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. For some sarcomas, this may be the only treatment needed if the cancer is detected early and is localized.
- Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is often used in combination with surgery to ensure that any remaining cancer cells are eradicated.
- Chemotherapy: This involves using drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. Chemotherapy might be used before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to eliminate residual cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: These drugs specifically target cancer cells based on the genetic changes in the sarcoma cells. This type of therapy can be used when the sarcoma has specific genetic mutations.
- Immunotherapy: This newer treatment option uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It is being studied for various types of sarcoma and might be an option for advanced stages.
Interviewer: Why is it important to raise awareness about sarcoma?
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: Raising awareness about sarcoma is essential for early detection, research funding, support for patients and families, and educational efforts.
Interviewer: How can our readers get involved in raising sarcoma awareness?
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: They can share information, support organizations dedicated to sarcoma research, participate in fundraisers, and advocate for research.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Chirmade, for sharing your expertise with us. Your work in providing the best cancer treatment in Thane and Navi Mumbai is truly commendable.
Dr. Pushpak Chirmade: It’s my pleasure. Let’s join hands in raising awareness for sarcoma and supporting those affected by this rare cancer. Together, we can contribute to a world where fewer people suffer from sarcoma and where those who do have access to the best possible care and support.
