July is Sarcoma Awareness Month

July is a time to raise awareness, educate, and support those affected by sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that arises in the connective tissues of the body. As a trusted supplier of wireless vital sign monitors for hospitals, we are committed to spreading awareness about sarcoma and supporting patients and their families. Join us as we delve into the significance of Sarcoma Awareness Month and highlight key aspects of this disease.

History of Sarcoma Awareness Month

Sarcoma Awareness Month is held each year during July, and strives to raise awareness about what is considered to be the “forgotten cancer.” The truth is that little is known about sarcomas, and efforts to encourage research and drug development are made more challenging due to a lack of awareness and understanding.

Unfortunately, it is not fully understood why some people develop sarcomas while the majority do not. However, researchers have been able to single out some indicators that may play a key role in causing sarcomas by identifying common characteristics in groups with unusually high occurrence rates. Although the causes of sarcomas are unknown, some known risk factors must be taken into account. One of the risk factors is exposure to phenoxyacetic acid in herbicides or chlorophenols in wood preservatives. An unusual percentage of patients with a rare blood vessel tumor have been exposed to vinyl chloride in their work. This substance is used in the manufacture of certain plastics. Another cause of sarcoma is high doses of radiation.

Scientists have focused on genetic alterations that may lead to the development of sarcomas. They have also found that there are a small number of families where more than one member in the same generation has developed a sarcoma. These cases of sarcomas within the same family may be related to a rare inherited genetic alteration. However, sarcomas are a completely random event in a family’s cancer history in the vast majority of cases.

Understanding Sarcoma

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that begins in bone or in the soft tissues of the body, including cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, fibrous tissue, or other connective or supportive tissue. Different types of sarcoma are based on where the cancer forms. For example, osteosarcoma forms in bone, liposarcoma forms in fat, and rhabdomyosarcoma forms in muscle. Treatment and prognosis depend on the type and grade of cancer (how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope and how quickly the cancer is likely to grow and spread). Sarcoma occurs in both adults and children.

It can affect people of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults. Sarcomas are often characterized by the abnormal growth of cells and can occur in various parts of the body, such as the limbs, trunk, or internal organs.

Signs and Symptoms

Sarcoma is the general term for a broad group of cancers that begin in the bones and in the soft (also called connective) tissues (soft tissue sarcoma). Soft tissue sarcoma forms in the tissues that connect, support and surround other body structures. This includes muscle, fat, blood vessels, nerves, tendons and the lining of your joints.

There are more than 70 types of sarcoma. Treatment for sarcoma varies depending on sarcoma type, location and other factors.

Sarcoma symptoms can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Common signs may include a noticeable lump or swelling, pain or tenderness, limited range of motion, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and bone fractures. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional if any concerning symptoms persist or if there are concerns about potential risk factors

The signs and symptoms of sarcoma include:

• A lump that can be felt through the skin that may or may not be painful
• Bone pain
• A broken bone that happens unexpectedly, such as with a minor injury or no injury at all
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss

Causes

It is not clear what causes most sarcomas. In general, cancer forms when changes (mutations) happen in the DNA within cells. The DNA inside a cell is packaged into a large number of individual genes, each of which contains a set of instructions telling the cell what functions to perform, as well as how to grow and divide.

Mutations might tell cells to grow and divide uncontrollably and to continue living when normal cells would die. If this happens, the accumulating abnormal cells can form a tumor. Cells can break away and spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Risk factors

Factors that can increase the risk of sarcoma include:

• Inherited syndromes. Some syndromes that increase the risk of cancer can be passed from parents to children. Examples of syndromes that increase the risk of sarcoma include familial retinoblastoma and neurofibromatosis type 1.
• Radiation therapy for cancer. Radiation treatment for cancer increases the risk of developing a sarcoma later.
• Chronic swelling (lymphedema). Lymphedema is swelling caused by a backup of lymph fluid that occurs when the lymphatic system is blocked or damaged. It increases the risk of a type of sarcoma called angiosarcoma.
• Exposure to chemicals. Certain chemicals, such as some industrial chemicals and herbicides, can increase the risk of sarcoma that affects the liver.
• 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.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing sarcoma typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, imaging tests (such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans), and biopsies. Once diagnosed, the treatment plan is tailored to the individual's specific needs, which may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or a combination of these approaches. Early detection and timely treatment significantly impact the prognosis and long-term outcomes for sarcoma patients.

Sarcoma is usually treated with surgery to remove the cancer. Other treatments might be used before or after surgery. Which treatments are best for you will depend on the type of sarcoma, its location, how aggressive the cells are, and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.

Treatment for sarcoma might involve:

• Surgery. The goal of surgery for sarcoma is to remove all of the cancer cells. Sometimes it's necessary to amputate an arm or leg to remove all of the cancer, but surgeons try to preserve limb function when possible. Sometimes all of the cancer can't be removed without hurting important structures, such as nerves or organs. In these situations, the surgeons work to remove as much of the sarcoma as possible.
• Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy beams, such as X-rays and protons, to kill cancer cells. The radiation can come from a machine that moves around your body directing the beams of energy (external beam radiation). Or the radiation might be placed in your body temporarily (brachytherapy). Sometimes radiation is done during an operation to remove the cancer (intraoperative radiation).
• Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. Some types of sarcoma are more likely to respond to chemotherapy treatment than others.
• Targeted therapy. Targeted therapy is a drug treatment that uses medicines that attack specific weaknesses in cancer cells. Your doctor may have your sarcoma cells tested to see if they are likely to respond to targeted therapy drugs.
• Immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a drug treatment that uses your immune system to fight cancer. Your body's disease-fighting immune system may not attack your cancer because the cancer cells produce proteins that blind the immune system cells. Immunotherapy drugs work by interfering with that process.
• Ablation therapy. Ablation therapy treatments destroy cancer cells by applying electricity to heat the cells, very cold liquid to freeze the cells or high-frequency ultrasound waves to damage the cells.

Preparing for your appointment

Start by making an appointment with your primary care provider if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you. When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as fasting before having a specific test. Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment
• Key personal information, including major stresses, recent life changes and family medical history
• All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including the doses
• Questions to ask your doctor
• Bring a family member or friend with you, if possible, to help remember the information you're given.

For sarcoma, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's likely causing my symptoms?
• Other than the most likely cause, what are other possible causes for my symptoms?
• What tests do I need?
• What's the best course of action? What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there restrictions I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions. On the other hand, your doctor is likely to ask you several questions, such as:

• When did your symptoms begin?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?

The Impact of Awareness

Increasing awareness about sarcoma is vital for early detection, timely diagnosis, and improved treatment outcomes. By spreading knowledge, we can encourage individuals to recognize potential signs and symptoms, seek medical attention, and ensure prompt intervention. Additionally, raising awareness helps reduce misconceptions and stigmas surrounding sarcoma, fostering a supportive environment for patients and their loved ones.

Support and Advocacy

During Sarcoma Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to show support and solidarity for individuals and families affected by sarcoma. Engage with local support groups, participate in fundraising events, and advocate for increased research funding and access to innovative treatments. Together, we can make a difference by offering understanding, empathy, and resources to those on their sarcoma journey.

Observing Sarcoma Awareness Month

Every effort counts in raising awareness about sarcoma and supporting those impacted by the disease. By observing Sarcoma Awareness Month, we contribute to a brighter future for sarcoma patients, improved research, and increased understanding of this rare form of cancer. 

Spread Awareness

Share information about sarcoma on social media platforms, blog posts, or through community events. Use hashtags like #SarcomaAwareness, #EndSarcoma, or #KnowSarcoma to reach a wider audience and educate others about the disease.

Support Sarcoma Organizations

Contribute to sarcoma-focused organizations by volunteering your time, making a donation, or participating in fundraising events. These organizations play a crucial role in research, patient support, and advocacy efforts.

Honor Survivors and Remember Loved Ones

Share stories of sarcoma survivors or remember those who have lost their battle with sarcoma. Highlight their strength and resilience, raising awareness about the impact of sarcoma on individuals and families.

Promote Early Detection

Emphasize the importance of early detection by encouraging regular medical check-ups, advocating for self-examinations, and sharing information about the signs and symptoms of sarcoma. Early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Engage in Community Events

Participate in local events organized in honor of Sarcoma Awareness Month. These events may include walks, runs, or educational seminars. Joining these activities provides an opportunity to connect with others affected by sarcoma and show support for the cause.

Let us stand together to raise awareness, support patients, and promote research and advancements in sarcoma care. By increasing knowledge and fostering a compassionate community, we can improve early detection, enhance treatment options, and ultimately make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by sarcoma.

At Sotera Digital Health, we remain dedicated to supporting healthcare professionals with innovative solutions for cancer care. Together, we can empower patients, their families, and the medical community in the fight against sarcoma.

Sotera proudly supports Sarcoma Awareness Month and remains committed to advancing healthcare through cutting-edge technology.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sarcoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20351048