Is sarcoma deadlier than different kinds of most cancers? Understand how it’s totally different from others
July has been declared because the Sarcoma Awareness Month to unfold consciousness about sarcoma, a uncommon however aggressive form of most cancers. Unlike most cancers, sarcoma can seem anyplace on the physique and there are round 70 totally different sorts of sarcoma. This is the explanation remedy of sarcoma differs relying on its location, sort and different elements. Sarcoma originates in physique’s connective tissues equivalent to bones, muscular tissues, fats, blood vessels and tendons. Sarcoma has the next likelihood of spreading to different physique elements in comparison with different cancer. A painless lump, bone ache, weight loss, surprising fracture, surprising weight reduction are a number of the signs of sarcoma. Exposure to chemical compounds, viruses, persistent swelling, radiation remedy, and different inherited syndromes are danger elements for sarcoma. (Also learn: Minimise your risk of cancer with these simple lifestyle changes)
What makes sarcoma deadlier and totally different from different kinds of most cancers
“Sarcoma, a type of cancer, exhibits several characteristics that set it apart from other forms of cancer, making it both unique and potentially more dangerous in certain cases. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care, says Dr Vikas Dua, Principal Director & Head, Paediatric Haematology, Haemato Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram.
Dr Dua explains difference between sarcoma and other types of cancer:
Where does sarcoma originate
Firstly, sarcoma differs from other cancers in its origin. Unlike common cancers that arise from epithelial tissues (carcinomas), sarcomas originate from the body’s connective tissues, such as bones, muscles, fat, blood vessels, and tendons. This distinction is significant because it affects the behaviour, treatment options, and prognosis of sarcoma patients.
Sarcoma and its many types
Sarcomas encompass numerous subtypes, each with distinct clinical behaviours and treatment responses. Some sarcomas, like osteosarcoma or Ewing sarcoma, tend to affect children and young adults, while others like leiomyosarcoma or liposarcoma are more common in older individuals. This diversity in age distribution highlights the heterogeneity of sarcomas and necessitates tailored treatment approaches.
Spreads faster than other cancers
Another factor that sets sarcoma apart is its tendency for aggressive growth and spread. Sarcomas have a higher potential for metastasis compared to some other cancers. Due to their origin in the body’s supportive tissues, they can invade surrounding structures and spread to distant sites through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. This propensity for metastasis contributes to the overall increased risk associated with sarcoma and its potential for greater danger.
Hard to diagnose
Furthermore, sarcomas often present unique diagnostic challenges. Their rarity and variability in appearance can lead to delays in diagnosis or misdiagnosis, resulting in a more advanced disease stage upon detection. This underscores the importance of specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating sarcomas to improve patient outcomes.
Challenging to treat
In terms of treatment, sarcomas typically require a multidisciplinary approach involving surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. However, due to their complex nature and resistance to traditional chemotherapy drugs, sarcomas can be more challenging to treat effectively. This necessitates the utilization of targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and clinical trials to explore novel treatment strategies.
Conclusion
“While sarcomas are comparatively uncommon in comparison with another most cancers sorts, their distinct traits make them equally, if no more harmful in sure instances. Early detection, correct prognosis, and applicable remedy are essential in bettering affected person prognosis and survival charges. Advances in analysis and a greater understanding of the biology of sarcomas are important to develop more practical remedy choices and enhance outcomes for these affected by this distinctive and probably life-threatening type of most cancers,” says Dr Dua.