Sarcoma Awareness Month – July 2026.

July is Sarcoma Awareness Month, making it an important time to reflect on the vital role that awareness plays in improving outcomes for people affected by this rare form of cancer.

Sarcoma is a cancer that develops in the bone or soft tissues and can appear anywhere in the body. Although it is rare, Sarcoma UK report that around 5,900 people are diagnosed with sarcoma in the UK each year, that’s roughly 15 people each day.

The rarity of sarcoma can also be highlighted by a survey performed by Sarcoma UK which found that only 25% of the public knew what sarcoma is, and within that 25% only 70% could accurately list symptoms of sarcoma. This lack of awareness means sarcoma often gets misdiagnosed, diagnosed late or treated incorrectly.

What are the symptoms of sarcoma?

The most common symptom of sarcoma is a lump that is growing or changing. Other symptoms can include:

• Swelling, tenderness of pain in the bone that can be worse at night;
• Stomach pain;
• Feeling sick; and
• Loss of appetite

Who gets sarcoma?

Sarcoma can affect anyone of any age. Research has shown it is the third most common cancer in children, but it is more common in middle-aged or elderly people.

Why early diagnosis matters

Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment options and outcomes.

Unfortunately, because sarcoma is rare, diagnosis can sometimes be delayed and as many as 40% of patients do not receive an initial accurate diagnosis of the sarcoma.

Sarcoma UK also reports that soft tissue sarcomas patients wait on average 92 weeks, almost two years, between spotting symptoms and being referred for investigation. If we can raise awareness for this type of cancer, it is hoped that the public will recognise potential symptoms earlier and seek help.

Likewise, awareness will help healthcare professionals recognise the symptoms of sarcoma and consider further investigations sooner. A Sarcoma Patient Survey reported that 27% of patients who visited their GP were started on a treatment for another condition or told their symptoms were not serious.

Finding help for sarcoma

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with sarcoma, there are lots of organisations who offer information and support.

Please visit Sarcoma UK and Boner Cancer Research Trust, two charities who provide a wide range of resources to help support patients and families with the impact of going through treatment. They also fund and pioneer research into the treatment of sarcoma.

How we can help?

If you or a loved one has experienced a delayed or missed diagnosis of sarcoma and you are concerned that the standard of care fell below what should reasonably be expected, please reach out to our Clinical Negligence Department who will be able to assist.