When people hear the word “cancer,” they often think of breast, lung, or colon cancer. But there’s another group that deserves equal attention: sarcomas. These rare cancers can affect individuals of all ages—but the good news is, with early diagnosis and expert care, sarcomas can often be treated successfully.
What is Sarcoma?
Sarcoma refers to a rare group of cancers that begin in bones or soft tissues, such as fat, muscle, nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Unlike more common cancers, sarcomas can develop almost anywhere in the body and come in many different subtypes.
Doctors broadly classify sarcomas into two main types:
- Bone sarcomas (e.g. osteosarcoma, Ewing’s sarcoma)
- Soft tissue sarcomas (e.g. liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma)
Prevalence in India
Sarcomas account for less than 1% of adult cancers but about 15% of childhood cancers. In India, awareness is growing, particularly among paediatric and young adult cases. However, because sarcomas are so rare, they often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed until they’ve progressed. That’s why expert, multidisciplinary care is essential.
Key Statistics on Soft Tissue Sarcomas
According to the American Cancer Society (2025):
- An estimated 13,520 new soft tissue sarcoma cases will be diagnosed in the U.S.
- Around 5,420 people are expected to die from the disease.
These figures include both adults and children.
The most common types of adult soft tissue sarcomas include:
- Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma
- Liposarcoma
- Leiomyosarcoma
Some types appear more frequently in specific areas. For example:
- Leiomyosarcoma is most common in the abdomen.
- Liposarcoma and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma are often found in the legs.
Diagnosing sarcoma type can be difficult, and even experienced pathologists sometimes disagree. As a result, “sarcoma of uncertain type” remains a common classification.
Causes and Risk Factors
Most sarcoma cases have no clearly known cause, but several risk factors increase likelihood:
- Genetic syndromes (e.g. Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Neurofibromatosis type 1, hereditary retinoblastoma)
- Previous radiation therapy
- Chronic swelling (lymphedema)
- Exposure to certain chemicals
- Still, many people develop sarcoma without any known risk factors.
Sarcoma in Children
Sarcomas like rhabdomyosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma rank among the most common childhood cancers. These conditions can impact physical growth, emotional health, and social life. That’s why children with sarcoma need both medical excellence and emotional support.
Special Focus: Neural-Origin Sarcomas
Some rare paediatric sarcomas begin in nerve tissues—such as Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumours (MPNST). These are often linked to Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and usually appear as deep-seated, painful, and fast-growing masses. Because they may involve critical nerves, they require early diagnosis and highly specialised treatment.
Why Specialized Sarcoma Care Matters
Not every cancer center has experience managing sarcomas. Research shows that patients treated at dedicated sarcoma centers have better outcomes. These centers bring together experts in surgery, oncology, radiology, pathology, and rehabilitation to deliver the most effective care.
They also offer access to clinical trials—giving patients a chance to benefit from the latest treatments.
Multidisciplinary Care at Healius Cancer & Haematology Clinics
At Healius, patients receive expert guidance under Dr. Mangesh Kamath, a renowned medical oncologist. Each patient’s treatment plan is:
- Personalized
- Evidence-based
- Backed by a multidisciplinary tumor board
Treatment options may include:
- Surgery: Tumor removal with an emphasis on preserving function
- Radiation therapy: Especially useful when surgery isn’t possible
- Chemotherapy: For aggressive or advanced cases
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: Guided by genetic profiling
Advanced Treatment Options
Surgery
Healius prioritizes limb-sparing techniques and reconstructive procedures, especially for limb sarcomas, allowing patients to retain as much function as possible.
Radiotherapy
Using state-of-the-art external beam radiation, the clinic targets high-risk areas precisely—maximizing effect while minimizing side effects.
Chemotherapy and Beyond
When appropriate, Healius oncologists recommend systemic treatments. Each regimen is selected through a comprehensive medical evaluation.
Drugs used to treat Soft Tissue Sarcoma
The medications listed below are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
- Votrient
- Pazopanib
- Doxorubicin
- Methotrexate
- Trabectedin
- Yondelis
Living with Sarcoma
A sarcoma diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but many people go on to lead full, active lives. Recovery includes:
- Physical rehabilitation
- Emotional support and counseling
- Regular medical follow-ups
- Lifestyle and nutrition guidance
Support groups can also help patients and their families manage the emotional journey.
Conclusion
Sarcomas may be rare and complex, but they are far from untreatable. With early diagnosis, advanced therapies, and expert care, survival rates are improving every year.
If you or a loved one notices an unusual lump, persistent pain, or unexplained symptoms—don’t wait. Early evaluation saves lives.
With the right support, sarcoma isn’t just treatable—it’s beatable.
