Sarcoma Awareness Month is observed annually every July. Sarcoma is a type of cancer that occurs in various locations of the body. ‘Sarcoma’ is the general term used to refer to a broad group of cancers that begin in the soft tissues and bones. Soft tissue sarcoma forms in the tissues that connect, support, and surround other body structures, including muscle, fat, blood vessels, nerves, tendons, and the lining of your joints. There is not only one type of sarcoma but actually more than 70 types. Sarcoma treatment varies depending on the type of sarcoma, location, and other factors.

Sarcoma 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.

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. Another cause of sarcoma is high doses of radiation.

However, sarcomas are a completely random event in a family’s cancer history in the vast majority of cases.

HOW TO OBSERVE SARCOMA AWARENESS MONTH

• Share your story on social media
• You can share your story or a post raising awareness about sarcoma on social media using the hashtag #SarcomaAwarenessMonth. This hashtag will help raise awareness about this strange type of cancer.
• Follow a sarcoma foundation on social media. This is a perfect day to read the posts of foundations on social media. The main idea is to spread awareness about sarcoma
• A good way to celebrate this day is by donating to help a sarcoma foundation raise funds for vital research. As sarcoma is also known as forgotten cancer, it may be difficult for foundations to raise funds.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT SARCOMAS

• Sarcomas are very rare hence the ignorance.
• Sarcoma can develop in any part of the body. The most common areas of sarcoma tumors are the legs, hands, arms, head, neck, chest, shoulders, abdomen, and hips.
• The cause is unknown. While there are a number of risk factors, the actual cause of sarcomas is unknown.
• Sarcomas are difficult to detect and are often misdiagnosed because they are so rare and can take multiple forms in multiple locations.
• With sarcomas, it is important to seek the best possible care to improve your chance of survival. Always get a second opinion.

WHY SARCOMA AWARENESS MONTH IS IMPORTANT

• It’s an opportunity to raise funds. It requires high fund for its campaign, research and all.
• It is an opportunity to raise awareness. This is because the main purpose of these foundations is to raise awareness about this forgotten disease. Some people don’t know that sarcoma is a type of cancer and others may not even know it exists. So during July, many awareness meetings and events are held to share information about this disease.
• It encourages check-ups. Visit your doctor for a check-up. This is the perfect month to do so.

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