Updated September 6, 2026. This overview replaces older statistics and adds current educational resources.
July is Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to learn about these rare cancers and support the research needed to understand them.
What is sarcoma?
Sarcomas begin in bone or in the body’s supporting soft tissues. Soft tissue sarcomas can develop in muscle, fat, nerves, blood vessels, and other tissues. Bone sarcomas include several different cancers; osteosarcoma is one type, not another name for all bone cancer.
The National Cancer Institute provides separate guides to soft tissue sarcoma and primary bone cancer. Cancer that starts in bone is different from cancer that begins elsewhere and spreads to bone.
Symptoms and risk factors
A soft tissue sarcoma may first appear as a lump or swelling, sometimes without pain. Bone cancer can cause pain or swelling in the affected area. These symptoms can also have other causes. A new lump, persistent bone pain, or unexplained swelling should be discussed with a health care professional.
Certain inherited conditions and previous radiation treatment can increase the risk of some sarcomas. Having a risk factor does not mean someone will develop cancer, and sarcoma can occur without a known risk factor.
Finding reliable information and care
Diagnosis and treatment depend on the sarcoma type and its location and extent. A care team may use imaging and a biopsy to identify the cancer. Treatment can involve surgery, radiation, or medicines, depending on the diagnosis. The NCI guides above explain these options and questions to discuss with the treating team.
Support cancer research
National Cancer Center funds research fellowships to help scientists investigate cancer. Explore our awarded research grants and Children’s Cancer Project, or make a donation to support cancer research.
