ACCC Recognizes July as Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month

Each July, Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month provides an opportunity to raise awareness of cancers of the connective tissues (nerves, muscles, joints, bone, fat, and blood vessels) and better support patients with these types of cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 13,590 cases of soft tissue sarcoma and 3,970 cases of bone and joint cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the United States this year. Although the disease is responsible for only 1% of adult cancers in the US, it accounts for 15% to 20% of pediatric cancers.

Bone sarcomas are projected to cause 2,050 deaths in the US this year and soft-tissue sarcomas forecast to claim more than twice that number, 5,200 lives. Sarcoma Foundation of America (SFA), which holds multiple awareness-raising events to acknowledge the month including the Race to Cure Sarcoma (and its virtual counterpart) and a children’s artwork contest, notes that of the roughly 6 subtypes of bone tumors, the most common forms are chondrosarcoma, chordoma, Ewing sarcoma, giant cell tumor of the bone, and osteosarcoma—the most common primary malignant bone tumor, which can present in any bone in the body.

As osteosarcoma cells are not easily killed by radiation, a multimodal, patient-centered approach to therapy is critical. To improve diagnosis and treatment for patients with sarcoma, the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is partnering with SFA on an upcoming educational program that aims to promote awareness and facilitate connections among and within community oncology teams. A suite of sarcoma education resources engendered by the program will serve physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, navigators, and other members of the multidisciplinary cancer care team as they deliver comprehensive cancer care. Additionally, the program will improve access to sarcoma-specific resources to empower patients to make the best, most informed decisions regarding their care.

As that initiative takes shape, there is another way to make a difference. In addition to its other meanings, a yellow ribbon symbolizes support for patients with sarcoma. As such, SFA sponsors several initiatives that invoke the color of sunlight. Light Up for Sarcoma on July 26, invites businesses, monuments, government offices, performing arts venues, and homes to display yellow lights to spread awareness. Niagara Falls, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and several components of the Philadelphia skyline have signed on to participate in the show of solidarity.

For more information about ACCC resources for adolescent and young adult patients with sarcoma and bone cancer click here.