Sarcoma UK and the Bone Cancer Research Trust are launching two groundbreaking research projects aiming to transform the early detection of primary bone cancer and soft tissue sarcoma.
The charities’ collaboration supports two distinct yet complementary studies: DIAGNOSED (Data-driven Integrated Approach to Generate Novel Opportunities for Sarcoma Early Diagnosis) and SPEED (osteoSARCOMA Pathology Evaluation for Early Diagnosis). Both projects are aimed at addressing the critical challenges in identifying sarcoma in its earliest and most treatable stages.
DIAGNOSED: Understanding GP referral delays
The first project, DIAGNOSED, will analyse nationwide GP data to investigate why primary bone cancer and soft tissue sarcoma patients experience delays in being referred to specialists. To do so, the researchers will explore referral patterns, patient symptoms, and opportunities to speed up diagnosis. “We’re not saying that doctors are intentionally missing things or not acting in the correct way, the issue is the huge evidence gap and there are lots of unknowns with sarcoma,” explained Dr Meena Rafiq, co-lead on the project. “We want to identify and present the possible early indicators of sarcoma to help GPs and healthcare professionals identify these patients sooner.”
SPEED: Developing blood test technology
The second project, SPEED, will take steps towards developing a potentially revolutionary blood test to identify cancer-related markers in blood samples. The hope is to create an affordable and reliable early detection method that could be a game-changer for osteosarcoma (a form of primary bone cancer) patients. “It is really hard to diagnose bone sarcomas early because people present with joint or bone pain, which isn’t necessarily the first indication of disease,” says lead researcher, Dr Sarah Snelling. ” If you diagnose patients earlier, you are able to start treatment earlier, which can increase the options available.” The team will investigate whether cancer-related markers (e.g. RNA, proteins or cells) can be detected in blood samples in order to facilitate earlier identification of osteosarcoma
Patient experience highlights urgent need
The research projects have been welcomed by sarcoma patients who have waited many years to be diagnosed. Sue Taylor, a 39-year-old mother from Liverpool, endured nine years of persistent pain before being diagnosed with a 15-centimetre osteosarcoma tumour. “If I had been diagnosed earlier, the tumour would have been smaller, and the surgery would not have been as severe. As it is, I can’t walk very far, I can’t do much on my own, and I certainly can’t go to my beloved Liverpool FC matches in the Kop as I can’t stand for long. I can no longer wear heels, I am left with a limp, and it really does embarrass me.” Now facing a long recovery with a 40-centimetre scar and significant mobility challenges, Sue is currently undergoing a gruelling programme of chemotherapy, which she says has “battered her body”. She has turned her experience into a mission of awareness about the need for early diagnosis. “When I heard about these research projects, I was overwhelmed with hope,” she says. “My own experience shows exactly why this work is so important.”
Charity leaders unite for early detection
“The devastating impact of a late sarcoma diagnosis ripples through entire families, robbing patients of treatment options and precious time,” said Richard Davidson, Chief Executive of Sarcoma UK. ” This groundbreaking collaboration with the Bone Cancer Research Trust represents a unified approach in our work to address bone cancer. By combining our expertise on the DIAGNOSED and SPEED projects, we’re not just funding research—we’re offering hope to families who have faced the heartbreak of delayed diagnosis. Early detection is absolutely critical in sarcoma care, and these innovative approaches could fundamentally transform patient outcomes. Together with BCRT, we’re determined to create a future where sarcoma is caught at its earliest, most treatable stage, sparing families the trauma that Sue, Vincent, and countless others have endured. This partnership demonstrates that when charities unite around a common purpose, we can accelerate progress and ultimately save lives.”
Will Burchell, CEO at the Bone Cancer Research Trust, said: “Collaborating with Sarcoma UK to fund two early diagnosis projects is a huge step forward in our collective mission to improve outcomes for bone cancer patients. Early diagnosis can change lives, and by joining forces, we’re giving patients and their families the hope of a better future. This collaboration is about standing side-by-side, driven by compassion and a commitment to making change happen faster. We are incredibly proud to be taking this important work forward with our colleagues at Sarcoma UK.”
