Each month, health observances bring attention to important medical causes. Although Sarcoma Awareness Month is officially recognized in July, this rare and often overlooked group of cancers deserves attention all year long. As time marches on, it is important to keep raising awareness about sarcoma, sometimes called the “forgotten cancer” because many people know little about rare cancers which are also greatly underfunded.

Sarcoma Awareness Month is dedicated to education, research, advocacy, and support for people affected by this rare but aggressive group of cancers. Learning the basics of sarcomas, recognizing possible warning signs, and sharing reliable information can help increase understanding and encourage earlier evaluation. A condition’s rarity does not make it less deserving of attention, funding, or compassion.

Sarcoma Awareness Ribbons

Yellow and gold ribbons are often worn during July (especially on Wear Yellow Wednesday) to show support for Sarcoma Awareness Month and the people whose lives are affected by sarcoma. One may also support the sarcoma awareness initiative by sharing educational facts, participating in community events, and donating and raising funds to help save lives.

Key Facts About Sarcoma

Sarcoma is not just one type of cancer. Experts say it refers to multiple types of growth that can develop in the bones or soft tissue. According to the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), soft tissue sarcomas can form in cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, tendons, nerves, and tissue around joints. Other sarcomas include osteosarcomas, which develop in bone; liposarcomas, which develop in fat cells; rhabdomyosarcomas, which form in muscle; and Ewing sarcomas, which can develop in bone or soft tissue.

AACR estimates that in 2026, approximately 13,910 cases of soft tissue sarcoma and approximately 4,110 cases of bone and joint cancer will be diagnosed in the United States. The organization also notes that about 5,400 people are expected to die from soft tissue sarcomas and about 2,210 from bone sarcomas. Five-year survival rates are estimated at 65.7% for soft tissue sarcomas and 68.7% for bone and joint sarcomas.

Sarcomas can affect people of any age. AACR notes that 22% of bone and joint cancers are diagnosed in people under age 20, while soft tissue sarcomas are more often diagnosed in adults age 55 or older. Because sarcomas can be difficult to distinguish from other cancers when they arise within organs, the true number of cases may be underestimated.

Sarcomas are rare but diverse. They account for about 1% of adult cancers and about 15% of childhood cancers. There are two broad categories—soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas—but more than 70 distinct subtypes have been identified. Risk factors can vary by subtype. For example, certain inherited conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni Syndrome or Werner Syndrome, may increase the risk of soft tissue sarcoma. Prior treatment with chemotherapy or radiation may increase the risk of osteosarcoma.

Awareness doesn’t start and end with facts. Learn about people affected by this challenging diagnosis and understand how you can get involved, support those diagnosed, promote education of others, and make a difference.

Early Signs and Diagnosis

Sarcomas may develop in the legs, arms, neck, chest, shoulders, abdomen, hips, or other areas of the body. Symptoms depend on the tumor’s type, size, and location. Soft tissue sarcomas may first appear as a painless lump under the skin, while bone sarcomas often cause localized pain. In many cases, symptoms do not become noticeable until a tumor grows large enough to press on nearby nerves, organs, or muscles.

There are no routine screening tests for sarcoma. Diagnosis may involve a physical examination, imaging scans, and tissue biopsy. Treatment often includes surgery to remove the tumor, sometimes combined with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or other approaches depending on the subtype and stage.

Dr. James Ewing and the History of Ewing Sarcoma

In 1921, American pathologist Dr. James Ewing (1866–1943) identified and described the rare malignant bone tumor now known as Ewing sarcoma. Dr. Ewing was the first professor of pathology at Cornell University and is considered a pioneer of modern cancer research. He wrote the 1919 medical text Neoplastic Diseases, helped co-found the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), and led the nation’s first cancer center in New York.

Organizations Supporting the Cause

Organizations such as AARC and others like the Sarcoma Foundation of America (SFA) work to advance sarcoma research, raise awareness, and support patients and families. SFA partners with individuals, patient advocates, and corporate supporters to help fund research and expand education. Broader cancer organizations, including the American Cancer Society (ACS), also contribute to awareness, research, and support for people affected by cancer.

Why Rare Cancers Deserve Attention

Sarcoma may be rare, but rarity should not lessen the urgency of awareness, research, or support. Increased attention can help people recognize possible symptoms sooner, seek medical evaluation, and better understand treatment options. Funding is also essential because rare cancers often receive less public attention and may have fewer dedicated resources than more common cancers. Awareness also matters for patients and families. A diagnosis of sarcoma can bring uncertainty, stress, and complex treatment decisions. Public education, patient support, and continued research can help create more hope, better understanding, and stronger resources for those facing this “forgotten cancer.”

Disclosure: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not replace guidance from a qualified health care professional.