Bone Cancer Awareness Month: Know the Importance and Preventive measures of Sarcoma
Bone cancer awareness month is observed in the month of July. During this month awareness is raised about the disease. Additionally, it is also known as Sarcoma.
Bone Cancer
Bone cancer awareness month is a global healthcare event observed every year in July. This event is observed from last 15 years for creating awareness and educating the public about early diagnosis, treatment and its effects on families.
Bone cancer is most frequently diagnosed among teenagers, while soft tissue cancers typically affect those 55 years or older.
In 2023, approximately 3,970 cases of bone and joint cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the United States. Further, the data was analyzed from the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER).
However, the survival rate for bone and joint cancer is 68.9 percent.
Sarcoma
Sarcoma is a general term used to describe bone cancer and rare cancer that develop in the connective tissues. In addition, this cancer accounts for about 1% to 2% of all cancers that affect children, and adults under 30.
Further, this cancer develops mostly in arms and legs. While, it develops deep inside the body, it may not be apparent until a significant lump or bump occurs.
Importance of Sarcoma and Bone cancer awareness month
Sarcoma is a rare cancer and also less well-known than other cancers such as liver or lung. Hence, it becomes vital to spread awareness and diagnosing the condition at an early stage.
Further, it helps in increasing chances of successful treatment. Furthermore, it also helps in raising funds from government for research and new advancements in sarcoma.
Sarcoma Awareness month 2023 Theme
This year 2023, the theme for sarcoma cancer awareness month is “Let’s talk about the Forgotten Cancer.” The aim of this theme is to raise sarcoma and bone cancer awareness that is referred as the “forgotten cancer” due to its rarity.
In addition, July month has been identified as sarcoma awareness month since 2008. Moreover, to distinguish it is marked by a yellow ribbon on medical calendar.
Apart from this, during this month people worldwide support sarcoma patients by tying yellow ribbons, donating funds to charitable organizations and conducting campaigns.
In addition, people run podcasts with eminent oncologists on the importance of early detection and symptoms of sarcoma. And, with survivors to share their successful journey to boost the sarcoma patient’s morale in battle with sarcoma.
Preventive measures for sarcoma
Sarcoma cannot be prevented. However, one can limit the exposure to its risk factors, further reducing the risk of having sarcoma. The following are the risk factors for sarcoma:
First, exposure to radiation, possibly during cancer therapy.
Second, exposure to industrial chemicals.
Third, exposure to human herpesvirus 8.
Also family history of having other genetic diseases such as Werner syndrome, Gorlin syndrome, or retinoblastoma.
Next, presence of Paget’s disease.
Finally, presence of lymphedema.
