Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in the soft tissues of the body. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 11,400 new cases of soft tissue sarcoma are diagnosed each year in the United States. Of these, approximately 5,000 cases are diagnosed in adults, and 6,400 in children.
Soft tissue sarcoma is more common in adults, with the median age of diagnosis being 62 years old. It is also more common in males than females, with a male to female ratio of 1.4:1.
Soft tissue sarcomas can occur in any part of the body, although they are most commonly found in the arms and legs. Other areas where soft tissue sarcoma can occur include the chest and abdomen, which account for a combined total of approximately 25% of cases.
The prognosis for soft tissue sarcoma varies depending on the type of cancer, the size of the tumor, and the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Generally, the five-year survival rate for localized soft tissue sarcoma is approximately 70%. For metastatic soft tissue sarcoma, the five-year survival rate is approximately 20%.
In conclusion, approximately 11,400 new cases of soft tissue sarcoma are diagnosed each year in the United States. Soft tissue sarcoma is more common in adults, with the median age of diagnosis being 62 years old, and it is more common in males than females. The prognosis for soft tissue sarcoma varies depending on the type of cancer, the size of the tumor, and the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis.