Sarcoma is a rare and complex cancer (malignant tumour) arising from the bone, cartilage or soft tissues such as fat, muscle, connective tissue or blood vessels. Sarcomas can form anywhere in the body and are frequently hidden deep in the limbs. They are often misdiagnosed as a benign (non-cancerous) lump, or as a sporting injury or growing pains in young people.
There are more than 80 different subtypes of sarcoma, many of which have distinct clinical characteristics with unique natural history and tumour biology. Each year, around 2,000 people will be diagnosed with a type of sarcoma in Australia.
The Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association (ANZSA) is the peak body for the sarcoma community. ANZSA aims to improve outcomes for sarcoma patients through research, education and awareness of sarcomas and related tumours.
Sarcoma Awareness Month is a chance for ANZSA to focus even more strongly on raising awareness of sarcoma in Australia and New Zealand. It is also a chance to showcase the great work of sarcoma researchers and clinicians as well as connect with the sarcoma community.
As part of Sarcoma Awareness Month, the VCCC Alliance together with ANZSA is running two free webinars:
1-2pm on Monday 18 July
Physical function outcomes in survivors of sarcoma: how movement and everyday activity is impacted and recovered
Sarcomas are rare cancers that develop in either the bone or soft tissues. A variety of treatments can be used, including chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation which may lead to short and long-term functional difficulties. This webinar will provide a better understanding of factors that influence function, some novel approaches that can lead to improvement, as well as hearing from researchers and consumers on the importance of measuring and supporting functional recovery.
5-6pm on Thursday 28 July
An international collaborative trial in retroperitoneal sarcoma
Join Associate Professor David Gyorki as he shines a light on the STRASS 2 research being conducted in Australia.
The EORTC 1809 STRASS 2 study is the first official trial looking into potential benefits of chemotherapy before surgery to improve disease control and survival in patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma. It is a pan-European study with a transatlantic collaboration with multiple specialised sarcoma centres in Australia, Canada and North America. Come see all the progress made on STRASS 2 in Australia.
Register now
