Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Can Solving A Puzzles A Day Keep Dementia Away?

As people age, so does the concern about cognitive decline and <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/dementia">dementia</a></span>. With no absolute cure for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, efforts to prevent it have become a critical public health priority. Perhaps one of the most widespread perceptions among wellness communities and social circles is that doing puzzles—whether Sudoku, crosswords, or jigsaw—will safeguard the brain against cognitive loss. But is there any science to support this brain-bolstering hype? Can a daily puzzle really help prevent dementia?

Based on the National Poll on Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan, most adults between the ages of 50 and 64 are concerned about getting dementia. Nonetheless, only 5% mentioned that they had talked with their doctors about taking preventive measures to lower this risk. Instead, most used brain teasers or vitamins in the hope of protecting their minds.

Although large health organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Global Council on Brain Health have dispelled the efficacy of supplements in preventing dementia, mentally stimulating activities—such as puzzles—continue to enjoy increasing support in scientific literature, albeit with qualifications.

A large UK observational study, which is part of the online PROTECT study of brain aging, used data from more than 19,000 healthy adults aged between 50 and 93. Participants who participated in word or number puzzles regularly had better cognitive function in various domains, including spatial working memory, verbal reasoning, attention, and reaction time.

Notably, various puzzles appeared to challenge different areas of the brain. Puzzles with words were correlated with enhanced grammatical thinking, whereas puzzles involving numbers such as Sudoku were connected with enhancement of executive abilities such as planning and organization.

But the biggest lesson learned wasn't which puzzle was superior—it was how often people did these cognitively challenging activities. People who solved puzzles at least monthly had improved cognitive scores all around compared to those who never did.

<h2>Correlation vs. Causation: What's Reducing Dementia Risk?</h2>

Even with these encouraging correlations, specialists warn that cause-and-effect conclusions should not be drawn directly. Observational studies such as PROTECT cannot say whether puzzle-solving enhances thought or if individuals with more robust brain powers are inherently inclined to such pursuits.

Yet another limitation is that most studies have not yet separated out lifelong puzzle enthusiasts from those who started solving them later in life. It becomes challenging to determine long-term impacts of puzzle work on dementia onset individually.

The Bronx Aging Study, a 20-year longitudinal study, discovered that older adults who consistently worked on crossword puzzles postponed the onset of dementia by an average of 2.54 years. Although not a guarantee against cognitive decline, this postponement is significant and supports the theory that cognitively stimulating activities can contribute to what's called "cognitive reserve"—the brain's capacity to deal with or compensate for damage.

<h2>Role of Brain Puzzles in Preventing Dementia</h2>

So, then, can puzzles prevent dementia? Not exactly. But can they slow down cognitive decline? Maybe. And unlike supplements, puzzles pose no health risk, so they are a safe and possibly useful part of a larger brain health plan.

As Dr. Teresa Gomes-Osman cited in the 2020 Lancet Commission Report on Dementia Prevention, lifestyle factors that can be changed—like education, exercise, treating depression, limiting air pollution exposure, and others—combined explain as much as 40% of dementia cases. Mental stimulation, such as puzzle-solving, is a perfect fit on the "cognitive reserve" side of this equation.

<h2>Which Puzzles Work Best To Reduce Dementia Risk?</h2>

Excellent for building numerical reasoning, Sudoku exercises the mind in logical reasoning, pattern identification, and problem-solving. Its deceptively simple format hides the sophisticated cognitive stimulation it provides.

These exercise critical thinking, recall of memory, and lateral thinking. Riddles also hone verbal abilities and understanding in everyday applications.

This tried-and-tested puzzle aids in better vocabulary, concentration, and observation. It enhances the brain's liaison with language—a fundamental thinking function during aging.

Fun and healing, jigsaws engage both the visual and memory parts of the brain. The coordination involved assists with motor functions and spatial understanding, and they can also be an excellent social activity.

<h2>Ways Puzzles Help Keep your Brain Healthy</h2>

Puzzles must be viewed as part of the brain-health puzzle, but only one piece. Puzzles work as part of a multi-pronged strategy to prevent dementia that also includes:

<strong>Physical exercise:</strong> Exercise maintains neuroplasticity and circulation to the brain.

<strong>Social engagement:</strong> Solitude is a recognized risk factor; remaining socially engaged maintains emotional and mental well-being.

<strong>Balanced nutrition:</strong> A Mediterranean-type diet with lots of leafy greens, whole grains, and healthy fat supports brain function.

<strong>Medical management:</strong> Treating hearing loss, hypertension, and diabetes is crucial for brain health.

While we’re still a long way from declaring puzzles as the magic bullet against dementia, research continues to reinforce the value of mental activity in supporting brain health. Puzzles challenge the brain, offer therapeutic value, and—when combined with a healthy lifestyle—can be an enjoyable and effective part of cognitive aging.

So the next time you grab a crossword or open up a Sudoku grid, you may be doing your brain a long-term favor.

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As people age, so does the concern about cognitive decline and dementia. With no absolute cure for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, efforts to prevent it have become a critical public health priority. Perhaps one of the most widespread perceptions among wellness communities and social circles is that doing puzzles—whether Sudoku, crosswords, or jigsaw—will safeguard the brain against cognitive loss. But is there any science to support this brain-bolstering hype? Can a daily puzzle really help prevent dementia?Based on the National Poll on Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan, most adults between the ages of 50 and 64 are concerned about getting dementia. Nonetheless, only 5% mentioned that they had talked with their doctors about taking preventive measures to lower this risk. Instead, most used brain teasers or vitamins in the hope of protecting their minds.Although large health organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Global Council on Brain Health have dispelled the efficacy of supplements in preventing dementia, mentally stimulating activities—such as puzzles—continue to enjoy increasing support in scientific literature, albeit with qualifications.A large UK observational study, which is part of the online PROTECT study of brain aging, used data from more than 19,000 healthy adults aged between 50 and 93. Participants who participated in word or number puzzles regularly had better cognitive function in various domains, including spatial working memory, verbal reasoning, attention, and reaction time.Notably, various puzzles appeared to challenge different areas of the brain. Puzzles with words were correlated with enhanced grammatical thinking, whereas puzzles involving numbers such as Sudoku were connected with enhancement of executive abilities such as planning and organization.But the biggest lesson learned wasn't which puzzle was superior—it was how often people did these cognitively challenging activities. People who solved puzzles at least monthly had improved cognitive scores all around compared to those who never did.Correlation vs. Causation: What's Reducing Dementia Risk?Even with these encouraging correlations, specialists warn that cause-and-effect conclusions should not be drawn directly. Observational studies such as PROTECT cannot say whether puzzle-solving enhances thought or if individuals with more robust brain powers are inherently inclined to such pursuits.Yet another limitation is that most studies have not yet separated out lifelong puzzle enthusiasts from those who started solving them later in life. It becomes challenging to determine long-term impacts of puzzle work on dementia onset individually.The Bronx Aging Study, a 20-year longitudinal study, discovered that older adults who consistently worked on crossword puzzles postponed the onset of dementia by an average of 2.54 years. Although not a guarantee against cognitive decline, this postponement is significant and supports the theory that cognitively stimulating activities can contribute to what's called "cognitive reserve"—the brain's capacity to deal with or compensate for damage.Role of Brain Puzzles in Preventing DementiaSo, then, can puzzles prevent dementia? Not exactly. But can they slow down cognitive decline? Maybe. And unlike supplements, puzzles pose no health risk, so they are a safe and possibly useful part of a larger brain health plan.As Dr. Teresa Gomes-Osman cited in the 2020 Lancet Commission Report on Dementia Prevention, lifestyle factors that can be changed—like education, exercise, treating depression, limiting air pollution exposure, and others—combined explain as much as 40% of dementia cases. Mental stimulation, such as puzzle-solving, is a perfect fit on the "cognitive reserve" side of this equation.Which Puzzles Work Best To Reduce Dementia Risk?SudokuExcellent for building numerical reasoning, Sudoku exercises the mind in logical reasoning, pattern identification, and problem-solving. Its deceptively simple format hides the sophisticated cognitive stimulation it provides.RiddlesThese exercise critical thinking, recall of memory, and lateral thinking. Riddles also hone verbal abilities and understanding in everyday applications.Word SearchThis tried-and-tested puzzle aids in better vocabulary, concentration, and observation. It enhances the brain's liaison with language—a fundamental thinking function during aging.Jigsaw PuzzlesFun and healing, jigsaws engage both the visual and memory parts of the brain. The coordination involved assists with motor functions and spatial understanding, and they can also be an excellent social activity.Ways Puzzles Help Keep your Brain HealthyPuzzles must be viewed as part of the brain-health puzzle, but only one piece. Puzzles work as part of a multi-pronged strategy to prevent dementia that also includes:Physical exercise: Exercise maintains neuroplasticity and circulation to the brain.Social engagement: Solitude is a recognized risk factor; remaining socially engaged maintains emotional and mental well-being.Balanced nutrition: A Mediterranean-type diet with lots of leafy greens, whole grains, and healthy fat supports brain function.Medical management: Treating hearing loss, hypertension, and diabetes is crucial for brain health.While we’re still a long way from declaring puzzles as the magic bullet against dementia, research continues to reinforce the value of mental activity in supporting brain health. Puzzles challenge the brain, offer therapeutic value, and—when combined with a healthy lifestyle—can be an enjoyable and effective part of cognitive aging.So the next time you grab a crossword or open up a Sudoku grid, you may be doing your brain a long-term favor.

can solving puzzles and 'mental exercises' help lower risk of dementia

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Millie Campbell was just eight years old in 2019 when a missed flu shot turned into a life-threatening ordeal, notes ABC News, Australia. What began with aches in her legs soon escalated into multiple organ failure caused by <span>influenza B</span>, a virus her parents never imagined could be so severe.

“They had to drain 200 millilitres of fluid from her heart, it was struggling,” her mother Stephanie Campbell recalled. “I think the doctor's words were: ‘Your daughter could die tonight’.”

Millie was airlifted from Newcastle to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, reports ABC News. Soon after arriving, she went into cardiac arrest. Her father, Ian Campbell, described the scene as surreal. “There was no indication she was going to survive,” he said.

Millie, previously fit and healthy with no pre-existing conditions, spent weeks in intensive care and six months in hospital. The damage from being on life support for so long led to poor circulation, and eventually, doctors had to amputate her left foot.

She had to learn to walk again. Today, reports ABC News, Millie uses a prosthetic leg and has turned to swimming not just for rehabilitation, but as a passion, one that has taken her to national championships and World Trials. Her eyes are now set on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.

“Millie’s recovery will be a lifelong journey,” Ms Campbell said. “Seeing how severe the flu can be, our message is: talk to your medical practitioner about the vaccine.”

<h4>Why Influenza B Is Hitting Children Hard</h4>

Although influenza A typically gets more public attention due to its pandemic potential, Australia has seen a sharp rise in influenza B cases, especially in children aged 5 to 16. According to Professor Patrick Reading from the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Influenza Research, type B can often be more severe in children, though the reason remains unclear.

“It's a bit of a mystery,” Professor Reading told ABC News. “We see this association, but we can't say there's something specific about the virus that causes it to affect children more.”

Vaccination rates among this age group are currently the lowest of all, following a steady decline since the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Reading warned that fading immunity, combined with lower vaccine uptake, is placing a burden on the healthcare system.

“We're not through the worst of it yet. Flu circulation continues through August to October,” he added. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated.”

<h4>Confusion Around Flu Vaccine Access</h4>

Millie’s parents said they’d always kept up with her vaccinations. But once she turned five, they mistakenly believed the flu wasn’t a major risk anymore. 

Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the flu vaccine is free only for children aged six months to five years, people over 65, and other vulnerable groups.

In contrast, states like Queensland and Western Australia are temporarily offering free vaccines to all residents, a move public health experts say should be adopted nationally.

Julie Leask, a vaccination policy expert from the University of Sydney, told ABC News, the current risk-based model isn't working. “When a vaccine is on the NIP, it sends a strong message that it's important,” she said. “Some doctors still wrongly advise against it for kids.”

<h4>Misinformation and Vaccine Hesitancy</h4>

Falling childhood vaccination rates, rising anti-vaccine sentiment, and misinformation, especially on social media, have complicated public health efforts.

Professor Leask pointed to anti-vaccine rhetoric, such as that from US politician Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a growing influence in Australia. Kennedy has falsely linked vaccines to autism and recently pushed against COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant women.

“We’re seeing the mainstreaming of misinformation,” Leask warned. “It’s having a ripple effect here too.”

Research shows common reasons parents skip the flu shot for kids include a lack of awareness, absence of a healthcare provider recommendation, time constraints, cost, and safety concerns.

As Millie thrives in her new life, her parents remain vocal about the importance of vaccination.

“This growing hesitancy is driven by people struggling to tell the difference between facts and misinformation,” Mr Campbell said. “Most people spend more time on social media than listening to experts, but that’s not where you should be getting your health advice.”

“Vaccination protects not just your child but the whole community.”

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Millie Campbell was just eight years old in 2019 when a missed flu shot turned into a life-threatening ordeal, notes ABC News, Australia. What began with aches in her legs soon escalated into multiple organ failure caused by influenza B, a virus her parents never imagined could be so severe.“They had to drain 200 millilitres of fluid from her heart, it was struggling,” her mother Stephanie Campbell recalled. “I think the doctor's words were: ‘Your daughter could die tonight’.”Millie was airlifted from Newcastle to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, reports ABC News. Soon after arriving, she went into cardiac arrest. Her father, Ian Campbell, described the scene as surreal. “There was no indication she was going to survive,” he said.A Long Road to RecoveryMillie, previously fit and healthy with no pre-existing conditions, spent weeks in intensive care and six months in hospital. The damage from being on life support for so long led to poor circulation, and eventually, doctors had to amputate her left foot.She had to learn to walk again. Today, reports ABC News, Millie uses a prosthetic leg and has turned to swimming not just for rehabilitation, but as a passion, one that has taken her to national championships and World Trials. Her eyes are now set on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.“Millie’s recovery will be a lifelong journey,” Ms Campbell said. “Seeing how severe the flu can be, our message is: talk to your medical practitioner about the vaccine.”Why Influenza B Is Hitting Children HardAlthough influenza A typically gets more public attention due to its pandemic potential, Australia has seen a sharp rise in influenza B cases, especially in children aged 5 to 16. According to Professor Patrick Reading from the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Influenza Research, type B can often be more severe in children, though the reason remains unclear.“It's a bit of a mystery,” Professor Reading told ABC News. “We see this association, but we can't say there's something specific about the virus that causes it to affect children more.”Vaccination rates among this age group are currently the lowest of all, following a steady decline since the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Reading warned that fading immunity, combined with lower vaccine uptake, is placing a burden on the healthcare system.“We're not through the worst of it yet. Flu circulation continues through August to October,” he added. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated.”Confusion Around Flu Vaccine AccessMillie’s parents said they’d always kept up with her vaccinations. But once she turned five, they mistakenly believed the flu wasn’t a major risk anymore. Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the flu vaccine is free only for children aged six months to five years, people over 65, and other vulnerable groups.In contrast, states like Queensland and Western Australia are temporarily offering free vaccines to all residents, a move public health experts say should be adopted nationally.Julie Leask, a vaccination policy expert from the University of Sydney, told ABC News, the current risk-based model isn't working. “When a vaccine is on the NIP, it sends a strong message that it's important,” she said. “Some doctors still wrongly advise against it for kids.”Misinformation and Vaccine HesitancyFalling childhood vaccination rates, rising anti-vaccine sentiment, and misinformation, especially on social media, have complicated public health efforts.Professor Leask pointed to anti-vaccine rhetoric, such as that from US politician Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a growing influence in Australia. Kennedy has falsely linked vaccines to autism and recently pushed against COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant women.“We’re seeing the mainstreaming of misinformation,” Leask warned. “It’s having a ripple effect here too.”Research shows common reasons parents skip the flu shot for kids include a lack of awareness, absence of a healthcare provider recommendation, time constraints, cost, and safety concerns.A Family’s Call to ActionAs Millie thrives in her new life, her parents remain vocal about the importance of vaccination.“This growing hesitancy is driven by people struggling to tell the difference between facts and misinformation,” Mr Campbell said. “Most people spend more time on social media than listening to experts, but that’s not where you should be getting your health advice.”“Vaccination protects not just your child but the whole community.”

family urges flu vaccination after 8-year-old's near-fatal influenza b fight

Supriya Ramesh

The Hidden Turmoil: Why Our Youth Are Quietly Crumbling and What We Can Do About It

Credits: Canva

Student Depression And Anxiety Goes Unevaluated - Why Is Mental Health Help Needed For Kids In School

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In an age of endless scrolling, instant likes, and constant comparison, the <span>mental health</span> of young people is taking a nosedive and fast. The rise in <span>depression</span>, <span>anxiety</span>, self-harm, <span>suicide</span>, and behavioural disorders has exploded in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the real tragedy is often hidden behind filtered selfies and people who aren't paying attention.

Quoting the World Health Organisation, Dr. Monica Sood shares that one in seven adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 globally suffers from a mental health problem. Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death among teens. In India, the numbers are no less harrowing—“a student kills themselves every hour,” says the National Crime Records Bureau.

This is a generation supposedly poised to “have it all”, but as Dr. Sood says, they’re instead buckling under immense pressure, from academic demands and the need for social validation to competition with peers, family expectations, and uncertainty about the future.

While awareness is slowly improving, Dr. Sood laments that “conversations about youth mental health are still clouded by stigma, cultural denial, and a lack of resources.” Therapy remains a luxury, school counselling is scarce, and what should be called burnout has been normalised as digital fatigue.

Dr. Sood argues that to truly address the crisis, we need to dig deeper. “We need to realise that the crisis is more than just schoolwork or screen time.” Instead, it’s the result of a complicated mesh of factors:

<ul><li>Unrealistic expectations from society: The pressure to be perfect in every way is, in Dr. Sood’s words, “a psychological war zone.”</li><li>Dysfunctional families: Emotional unavailability, abuse, neglect, and overcontrol can deeply harm a child’s sense of self.</li><li>Lack of emotional vocabulary: Many young people don’t have the words to express what they’re feeling. Instead, their pain shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance abuse.</li><li>Unfiltered digital exposure: Curated lives on social media fuel jealousy, insecurity, and body image issues.</li><li>Loss of spiritual and community ties: “The feeling of being part of something bigger is fading,” warns Dr. Sood.</li></ul>

But all is not lost. Dr. Sood lays out a refreshingly bold and unconventional action plan for what she calls a mental health renaissance—one that starts in schools and ends in society-wide reform.

Mindfulness and <span>Emotional Literacy</span> in the Curriculum

Dr. Sood urges schools to teach children how to manage their emotions just as they teach math. Weekly lessons in emotional intelligence, stress management, and nonviolent communication should begin from Class 1. “Add art therapy, journaling, breathing exercises, and storytelling,” she suggests, to make these lessons stick.

Dr. Sood calls for a peer-led model of support—“Every school, college, and university should choose and train a few older students or peers to be ‘Empathy Ambassadors’.” These students should be trained to listen, maintain confidentiality, and support others in crisis. Sometimes, <span>peer support</span> can be more approachable than formal therapy.

“We fast for our bodies; we should fast for our minds too,” Dr. Sood says. She recommends monthly ‘silent days’ in schools and families—no screens, no judgements, just fun, creativity, and nature.

Beyond home and school, young people need judgement-free zones to simply exist. “Think of libraries, community centres, and parks as ‘mental sanctuaries’,” says Dr. Sood. These could host music corners, open mic nights, and wellness cafés.

Dr. Sood’s final suggestion marries ancient Indian wisdom with modern science—“Use Ayurvedic mind-body typing, psychometric tests, and AI-based behavioural tracking to make personalised mental health plans.” She envisions a future where technology aids rather than overwhelms, offering tailored, holistic mental health solutions.

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In an age of endless scrolling, instant likes, and constant comparison, the mental health of young people is taking a nosedive and fast. The rise in depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicide, and behavioural disorders has exploded in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the real tragedy is often hidden behind filtered selfies and people who aren't paying attention.Quoting the World Health Organisation, Dr. Monica Sood shares that one in seven adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 globally suffers from a mental health problem. Suicide is the fourth most common cause of death among teens. In India, the numbers are no less harrowing—“a student kills themselves every hour,” says the National Crime Records Bureau.This is a generation supposedly poised to “have it all”, but as Dr. Sood says, they’re instead buckling under immense pressure, from academic demands and the need for social validation to competition with peers, family expectations, and uncertainty about the future.While awareness is slowly improving, Dr. Sood laments that “conversations about youth mental health are still clouded by stigma, cultural denial, and a lack of resources.” Therapy remains a luxury, school counselling is scarce, and what should be called burnout has been normalised as digital fatigue.The Root Causes Go Beyond ExamsDr. Sood argues that to truly address the crisis, we need to dig deeper. “We need to realise that the crisis is more than just schoolwork or screen time.” Instead, it’s the result of a complicated mesh of factors:Unrealistic expectations from society: The pressure to be perfect in every way is, in Dr. Sood’s words, “a psychological war zone.”Dysfunctional families: Emotional unavailability, abuse, neglect, and overcontrol can deeply harm a child’s sense of self.Lack of emotional vocabulary: Many young people don’t have the words to express what they’re feeling. Instead, their pain shows up as anger, withdrawal, or substance abuse.Unfiltered digital exposure: Curated lives on social media fuel jealousy, insecurity, and body image issues.Loss of spiritual and community ties: “The feeling of being part of something bigger is fading,” warns Dr. Sood.A Mental Health RenaissanceBut all is not lost. Dr. Sood lays out a refreshingly bold and unconventional action plan for what she calls a mental health renaissance—one that starts in schools and ends in society-wide reform.Mindfulness and Emotional Literacy in the CurriculumDr. Sood urges schools to teach children how to manage their emotions just as they teach math. Weekly lessons in emotional intelligence, stress management, and nonviolent communication should begin from Class 1. “Add art therapy, journaling, breathing exercises, and storytelling,” she suggests, to make these lessons stick.Empathy Ambassadors in Every InstitutionDr. Sood calls for a peer-led model of support—“Every school, college, and university should choose and train a few older students or peers to be ‘Empathy Ambassadors’.” These students should be trained to listen, maintain confidentiality, and support others in crisis. Sometimes, peer support can be more approachable than formal therapy.Digital Detox Sabbaticals“We fast for our bodies; we should fast for our minds too,” Dr. Sood says. She recommends monthly ‘silent days’ in schools and families—no screens, no judgements, just fun, creativity, and nature.Rebuilding Sacred Third SpacesBeyond home and school, young people need judgement-free zones to simply exist. “Think of libraries, community centres, and parks as ‘mental sanctuaries’,” says Dr. Sood. These could host music corners, open mic nights, and wellness cafés.Combining AI, Ayurveda, and PsychologyDr. Sood’s final suggestion marries ancient Indian wisdom with modern science—“Use Ayurvedic mind-body typing, psychometric tests, and AI-based behavioural tracking to make personalised mental health plans.” She envisions a future where technology aids rather than overwhelms, offering tailored, holistic mental health solutions.

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When we talk about cancer, breast, lung, and colon usually dominate the conversation. But lurking quietly in the background is a lesser-known, often overlooked type: sarcomas. These <span>rare cancers</span>, which take root in connective tissues, don’t always get the attention they deserve. Yet, they deserve it and how.

Sarcomas are a group of cancers which arise from body tissues. It can be from bone, fat, muscle, tendons, nerves, blood and lymph vessels are the predominant ones.

Unlike most other cancers that generally strike older adults, sarcomas don’t discriminate by age. “These cancers can occur in relatively younger age groups,” Dr. Karthik K S, Consultant, Surgical Oncology at KMC Hospital, Mangalore, says. Sometimes, these are also triggered by certain genetic mutations, making them all the more complex.

These tumours can quietly grow in any part of the body, which means the symptoms are often subtle and deceptive. Dr. Karthik says, “Presentations may be much simpler than the consequences. Unplanned treatment may lead to rather grievous consequences.”

Because of the wide-ranging locations where sarcomas can appear, they often call for specialists across disciplines. “The treatment of these types of cancers will need specialised doctors, often oncologist surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists,” he explains. In short, a generalist approach just won’t do.

Before treatment even begins, the real detective work starts. “The patient will need a full evaluation,” says Dr. Karthik. That begins with imaging, but even this depends on where the <span>sarcoma</span> has taken hold. Once imaging has painted a picture, a <span>biopsy</span> is essential. “These diseases need a biopsy to prove the diagnosis and often subclassify the disease based on IHC (immunohistochemistry),” he says.

If there’s a suspicion of hereditary involvement, genetic studies may also be required. Only once everything is on the table—stage, type, and location—can doctors chalk out a treatment plan.

According to Dr. Karthik, “treatment includes surgery as a main modality of treatment.” But it’s rarely a one-man show. “Treatment may also include chemotherapy and radiotherapy,” he adds, making it a team effort from start to finish.

Dr. Sachin Sekhar Biswal, Medical Oncology Consultant at Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, draws attention to another critical aspect: age is no protection. “Connective tissue is an important constituent of the human body. The cancer that arises from the connective tissue mostly constitutes sarcoma. It can be seen in all age groups, starting from infancy to geriatric populations.”

In fact, in children, sarcomas are surprisingly common. “Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common type of cancer in the children,” Dr. Biswal states. “Apart from that, <span>osteosarcoma</span> and Ewing's sarcoma are also common types of sarcomas in children.”

Since sarcomas can develop anywhere in the body, the symptoms can be vague or misleading. Dr. Biswal points out, “It can present as a progressively increasing swelling or a lump, bone overgrowth with pain, swelling or limitation in the range of motion, or simply a vague lump based on its location.”

Which is why early detection is tough and treatment becomes even more time-sensitive.

Dr. Biswal explains that sarcoma treatment is not a one-specialist show. “Sarcoma treatment is always a multimodality effort involving medical and surgical oncologists, orthopaedic oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, onco-pathologists and the rehabilitation team.”

He shares that the most common treatment plan includes “surgical excision followed by radiation or chemotherapy”. When it comes to bone or limb sarcomas, gone are the days when amputation was the only solution. “Limb salvage therapy rather than amputation is the new way. It can be achieved by high-quality implants or autografts,” he adds.

Time really is of the essence. Dr. Biswal stresses, “Though rare, the tendency to metastasise is high, such that diseases like Ewing’s sarcoma are considered systemic from the very time of diagnosis.” In other words, even at diagnosis, it’s already a whole-body concern.

But with timely diagnosis and swift treatment, outcomes can be significantly improved. “A timely diagnosis and a prompt treatment can save a life and avoid much morbidity,” Dr. Biswal reminds us.

sarcoma

connective tissue cancer

rare cancers

rhabdomyosarcoma

osteosarcoma

ewing sarcoma

early diagnosis

biopsy

limb salvage

multimodal treatment

When we talk about cancer, breast, lung, and colon usually dominate the conversation. But lurking quietly in the background is a lesser-known, often overlooked type: sarcomas. These rare cancers, which take root in connective tissues, don’t always get the attention they deserve. Yet, they deserve it and how.Not Just One, But Many TypesSarcomas are a group of cancers which arise from body tissues. It can be from bone, fat, muscle, tendons, nerves, blood and lymph vessels are the predominant ones.Unlike most other cancers that generally strike older adults, sarcomas don’t discriminate by age. “These cancers can occur in relatively younger age groups,” Dr. Karthik K S, Consultant, Surgical Oncology at KMC Hospital, Mangalore, says. Sometimes, these are also triggered by certain genetic mutations, making them all the more complex.The Trouble with TumoursThese tumours can quietly grow in any part of the body, which means the symptoms are often subtle and deceptive. Dr. Karthik says, “Presentations may be much simpler than the consequences. Unplanned treatment may lead to rather grievous consequences.”Because of the wide-ranging locations where sarcomas can appear, they often call for specialists across disciplines. “The treatment of these types of cancers will need specialised doctors, often oncologist surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists,” he explains. In short, a generalist approach just won’t do.Diagnosis: More Than Just a ScanBefore treatment even begins, the real detective work starts. “The patient will need a full evaluation,” says Dr. Karthik. That begins with imaging, but even this depends on where the sarcoma has taken hold. Once imaging has painted a picture, a biopsy is essential. “These diseases need a biopsy to prove the diagnosis and often subclassify the disease based on IHC (immunohistochemistry),” he says.If there’s a suspicion of hereditary involvement, genetic studies may also be required. Only once everything is on the table—stage, type, and location—can doctors chalk out a treatment plan.Surgery Takes the LeadAccording to Dr. Karthik, “treatment includes surgery as a main modality of treatment.” But it’s rarely a one-man show. “Treatment may also include chemotherapy and radiotherapy,” he adds, making it a team effort from start to finish.Kids Are Not SparedDr. Sachin Sekhar Biswal, Medical Oncology Consultant at Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneshwar, draws attention to another critical aspect: age is no protection. “Connective tissue is an important constituent of the human body. The cancer that arises from the connective tissue mostly constitutes sarcoma. It can be seen in all age groups, starting from infancy to geriatric populations.”In fact, in children, sarcomas are surprisingly common. “Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common type of cancer in the children,” Dr. Biswal states. “Apart from that, osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma are also common types of sarcomas in children.”SymptomsSince sarcomas can develop anywhere in the body, the symptoms can be vague or misleading. Dr. Biswal points out, “It can present as a progressively increasing swelling or a lump, bone overgrowth with pain, swelling or limitation in the range of motion, or simply a vague lump based on its location.”Which is why early detection is tough and treatment becomes even more time-sensitive.Teamwork Makes the Treatment WorkDr. Biswal explains that sarcoma treatment is not a one-specialist show. “Sarcoma treatment is always a multimodality effort involving medical and surgical oncologists, orthopaedic oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, onco-pathologists and the rehabilitation team.”He shares that the most common treatment plan includes “surgical excision followed by radiation or chemotherapy”. When it comes to bone or limb sarcomas, gone are the days when amputation was the only solution. “Limb salvage therapy rather than amputation is the new way. It can be achieved by high-quality implants or autografts,” he adds.Speed Is EverythingTime really is of the essence. Dr. Biswal stresses, “Though rare, the tendency to metastasise is high, such that diseases like Ewing’s sarcoma are considered systemic from the very time of diagnosis.” In other words, even at diagnosis, it’s already a whole-body concern.But with timely diagnosis and swift treatment, outcomes can be significantly improved. “A timely diagnosis and a prompt treatment can save a life and avoid much morbidity,” Dr. Biswal reminds us.

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