Sarcoma is a rare cancer group that arises in bones and connective tissue like muscle, tendons, and fat. The cancers’ symptoms vary by type and location but are mainly characterized by swelling, weight loss, fatigue, pain, and nodule. While the exact sarcoma Peoria cause is unknown, certain risk factors increase your likelihood of developing the condition. Among the common sarcoma risk factors include:
Age
Sarcoma can develop at any age, but they are prevalent as we age. Most of the cases are diagnosed in individuals at or over 65 years. This can be associated with the cell damage experienced over time that contributes to abnormal cell division due to mutation. While you cannot control aging, you can adopt a healthier lifestyle to limit sarcoma risk.
Genetics
Genetic predisposition increases the risk of sarcoma and other conditions. Inherited conditions that put you at high risk of developing sarcoma include retinoblastoma, neurofibromatosis type 1, Werner syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, tuberous sclerosis complex, nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis. Genetics are beyond your control, but you can do much, including managing inherited conditions and leading a healthier lifestyle to keep sarcoma from developing.
Immune system concerns
The immune system defends you from infection and fights those that break in, keeping you healthier. Immune problems, such as being weakened by HIV, and other conditions like chronic lymphocytic leukemia increases sarcoma risks. Autoimmune disorders like psoriasis and lupus also impact the immune system’s effectiveness and increase the risk of developing sarcoma. Managing the problems affecting your immune system can help mitigate sarcoma risk, which includes taking prescription medication, remaining physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight, among other measures.
Radiation
If you have had radiotherapy, such as for cancer treatment, you are at higher risk of developing sarcoma. This is mainly considering the radiotherapy dose and treatment location. The risk is higher if radiation therapy is combined with chemotherapy. Besides treatments, radiation from environmental exposure also increases sarcoma risk. The ionizing radiation, such as that experienced in Japan following the atomic bomb during World War II, exposes the population to an increased risk of sarcoma.
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is tissue swelling caused by fluid accumulation normally drained via the lymphatic system. The condition can develop anywhere but primarily affects arms and legs. You can be born with the condition or develop it following certain surgical procedures. For instance, following breast surgery that entails lymph node removal, you can develop lymphedema. Angiosarcoma is the common sarcoma cancer that forms in the developed lymphedema areas.
Environmental toxins
Environmental toxins are known to contribute to skin cancer, but that is not the only health threat. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as vinyl chloride monomer, increases sarcoma risk. This emphasizes the need to implement proper measures at the workplace, including wearing the appropriate gear to mitigate industrial chemical exposure.
Understanding the common sarcoma risk factors can help you implement the right measures to mitigate them and keep the condition at bay. When you notice the symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention for thorough diagnosis and treatment is also critical. Visit Arizona Center for Cancer Care today for more or sarcoma, diagnosis, and treatment.
