Karachi Medical Experts Sound Alarm on Growing Musculoskeletal Tumor Cases
Orthopaedic specialists in Karachi have reported a concerning increase in musculoskeletal tumor diagnoses across the city, with medical professionals emphasizing the critical need for early detection to avoid severe, life-threatening complications. In an exclusive discussion with The Express Tribune, Dr. Sajjad Baghio, a prominent orthopaedic specialist at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, detailed the rising trend and its implications for public health.
Understanding Musculoskeletal Tumors and Their Symptoms
Dr. Baghio explained that musculoskeletal tumors encompass cancers affecting bones, muscles, fat, and various soft tissues. He noted that these conditions are frequently overlooked by patients during initial stages, leading to delayed treatment. The specialist highlighted distinct symptom patterns based on age groups:
- Children: Bone tumors are more prevalent, typically presenting with persistent pain that intensifies at night and doesn't respond to standard pain medications.
- Adults: Tumors in muscles and soft tissues are more common, often appearing as painless swellings that gradually increase in size over time.
Warning Signs That Demand Immediate Medical Attention
The orthopaedic expert identified several red flags that should prompt immediate consultation with healthcare professionals:
- Swelling in arms or legs that continues expanding for more than one month
- Unexplained fractures occurring after minor injuries
- Persistent limb pain in children lasting several weeks without improvement
"Patients should avoid relying on home remedies and instead seek immediate evaluation from orthopaedic or oncology surgeons," Dr. Baghio emphasized.
Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment Landscape
Dr. Baghio revealed that while many cancers have hereditary components, no specific screening program exists for musculoskeletal tumors in Pakistan. This gap contributes to significant challenges, with many patients arriving at hospitals only when their disease has reached advanced stages, often spreading to lungs, liver, or other bones.
The specialist shared concerning statistics, noting that more than 100 bone cancer patients visit a single Karachi hospital each month. However, he offered encouraging news regarding treatment outcomes: "When aggressive tumors are identified and treated during early stages, the five-year survival rate is quite promising. Patients can potentially live normal lives if the cancer doesn't recur within that period."
Advanced Treatment Approaches and Professional Expertise
Dr. Baghio, who received specialized training at Dow University of Health Sciences and in China, disclosed that his team at JPMC has been managing complex tumor cases since 2025. For severe presentations, treatment typically involves a multi-phase approach:
- Initial chemotherapy and radiotherapy to reduce tumor size
- Follow-up surgical intervention to remove affected tissues
The specialist concluded with an important message of hope: "Cancer diagnosis doesn't equate to hopelessness. With timely medical intervention, we can not only save lives and limbs but also preserve their functionality for long-term quality of life."
