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The epidemiology of soft tissue sarcoma
1Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD 20892-7364, USA.
Seminars in Oncology
|October 31, 1997
Summary
Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) incidence is increasing in the US, with variations by gender, subsite, and cell type. Both genetic predispositions and environmental exposures contribute to STS development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) represents about 1% of annual cancer diagnoses in the U.S.
- Population data from 1935-1989 indicate a rising STS incidence in both sexes, more pronounced in males.
- The increasing trend predates and is not explained by acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related Kaposi's sarcoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence trends of soft tissue sarcoma (STS).
- To explore potential etiologic factors, including environmental and genetic influences.
- To understand the heterogeneity in STS based on epidemiological variations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of population-based cancer registry data (Connecticut, 1935-1989).
- Review of known environmental risk factors for STS.
- Examination of associations between STS and specific heritable genetic conditions.
Main Results:
- Observed increasing incidence of STS over several decades.
- Identified numerous environmental exposures linked to STS, such as radiation, certain chemicals, and medications.
- Noted increased STS occurrence in individuals with specific genetic syndromes.
Conclusions:
- STS etiology is likely heterogeneous, influenced by diverse environmental and genetic factors.
- Identified risk factors, while accounting for a minority of cases, offer crucial insights.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the genetic and environmental determinants of various STS subtypes.