There are many types of cancer, some of which we hear frequently, while other rare types are not publicised as often. Soft tissue sarcomas are a group of rare cancers affecting the tissues that connect, support and surround other body structures and organs.
July is Sarcoma Awareness Month and we want to help provide knowledge to our audience that may be affected by this rare form of cancer.
As provided on the NHS website, symptoms of soft tissue sarcomas often have no obvious symptoms in the early stages. They can cause symptoms as they get bigger or spread. The symptoms depend on where cancer develops. For example:
- Swelling under the skin may cause a painless lump that cannot easily be moved around and gets bigger over time.
- Swelling in the tummy (abdomen) may cause abdominal pain, a persistent feeling of fullness and constipation.
- Swelling near the lungs may cause a cough or breathlessness.
You should see a GP if you have a lump – particularly one that’s getting bigger over time. Although it’s much more likely you have a non-cancerous condition, such as a cyst (fluid under the skin) or lipoma (fatty lump), it’s important to have your symptoms checked.
