Every year, the month of July is marked as Sarcoma Awareness Month—a time when patients, caregivers, doctors, and advocates across the world come together to shine a light on this rare and often overlooked group of cancers. In 2025, the global theme is “Know. Act. Advocate.” It urges people to understand the signs, respond to early symptoms, and support timely diagnosis and treatment.Unlike most common cancers that begin in internal organs, sarcoma often starts in the bones and soft tissues. That’s why experts say not all cancers begin from within.“Sarcoma is often called the ‘forgotten cancer’ because of its rarity and the lack of awareness around it,” says Dr. Sunil Chopade, Consultant, Medical Oncology at Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai.Also Read: Medical Memoir: The History Of Period Care Through Years Of Menstrual Products' EvolutionWhat Is Soft Tissue Sarcoma?Sarcomas are a rare form of cancer that can arise from a wide range of tissues—muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves, and fibrous tissues. Based on their origin, they are categorized as bone sarcomas and soft tissue sarcomas.“Soft tissue sarcomas are classified into nearly 100 types based on the cell of origin and genetic changes,” explains Dr. Chopade. “While they make up less than 1% of adult cancers, in children, they account for about 10–15%.”Common types include Ewing’s sarcoma, osteogenic sarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma, especially in younger patients. These can occur in areas such as the extremities, chest wall, spine, or abdominal cavity.When to Worry About a LumpOne of the earliest signs of sarcoma is a lump or swelling, but not all lumps are dangerous. So how do you tell the difference?“Benign lumps like lipomas may stay the same size for years and are usually painless,” says Dr. Chopade. “But if the swelling is painful, growing in size, or limiting movement, it needs evaluation.”He adds, “Unlike benign lumps, sarcomas can infiltrate surrounding tissues. If a lump persists or grows, don’t ignore it.”Symptoms Depend on the SiteSymptoms of sarcoma can vary dramatically depending on where it develops. A tumor near the joints may limit movement, while one in the abdomen can cause pain, discomfort, or a feeling of fullness. Sarcomas near the spine may even lead to neurological issues.Who Is at Risk?Although sarcoma can strike without warning, some factors increase risk.“Previous radiation exposure is a known cause,” Dr. Chopade says. “There are also genetic syndromes like Li-Fraumeni and retinoblastoma that are linked with sarcoma.”As for lifestyle factors? “There is no evidence that any specific diet or supplement prevents sarcoma,” he clarifies.Diagnosis and Why Early Detection MattersSarcoma diagnosis relies on imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, and PET-CT, followed by a biopsy to confirm the cancer type.“Treatment typically includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy,” Dr. Chopade says. “If detected early, sarcomas can be cured.”Specialists to consult include medical oncologists, cancer surgeons, and orthopaedic oncologists, particularly those experienced in bone and soft tissue tumors.Though immunotherapy has shown promise in many cancers, its application in soft tissue sarcomas is still under research, except in select cases.The goal of Sarcoma Awareness Month is not just education, but empowerment. “Knowing the signs, acting on symptoms, and advocating for timely care can save lives,” stresses Dr. Chopade.If you notice an unusual lump or persistent pain, don’t wait. Consult your doctor or oncologist. Early action can make all the difference.
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