Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that grows in the connective tissues. The tumors commonly form in the bones, tendons, muscles, cartilage, nerves, and blood vessels of the arms and legs. There are more than 50 types of sarcoma. However, they are grouped into two main types: soft tissue sarcoma and bone sarcoma. Studies have shown that certain things make a person more likely to suffer from this condition.

Read on to know the main risk factors for sarcoma:

1. Inherited syndromes
Different syndromes increase the risk of cancer, and they can be passed from parents to children. Some syndromes include neurofibromatosis type 1, familial retinoblastoma, tuberous sclerosis, Maffucci syndrome, and Gorlin syndrome.

2. Constant swelling
Chronic swelling or lymphedema due to the backup of lymph fluid is also a risk factor. This swelling happens when the lymphatic system gets blocked or damaged. Radiation to lymph nodes or removal of lymph nodes surgically may cause this condition. For instance, lymphedema may happen after breast surgery, as lymph nodes are removed from near the armpit.

3. Previous radiation treatment for cancer
This is one of the leading risk factors for sarcoma. Exposure to external radiation therapy for treating any other type of cancer may increase the chances of developing sarcoma in the treated area. This can happen anytime between 5 and 30 years after the radiation therapy.

4. Exposure to chemicals
Working with chemicals or being around them for long hours every day may increase the risk of developing sarcoma. According to experts, high exposure to herbicides, chlorophenols, industrial chemicals, and more may cause sarcoma that affects the liver. Apart from these, exposure to dioxin and vinyl chloride may increase the likelihood of developing soft tissue sarcoma.

5. Contact with viruses
Certain viruses, such as human herpesvirus 8, can increase the chances of developing sarcoma in people with weak immune system function.

6. Immune system abnormalities
Any problem with the immune system can increase the chances of developing different types of cancer, including sarcoma.

7. Age and height
These are important risk factors for sarcoma. Soft tissue sarcoma can happen at any age. However, it is more common in adults over the age of 50. On the other hand, the risk of bone sarcoma is high during the teenage growth years. Children who have this condition are typically tall for their age. According to experts, rapid bone growth can increase the risk of the development of tumors.

8. Certain bone conditions
The risk of sarcoma, particularly bone sarcoma, is higher for people with certain non-cancer bone conditions, such as Paget disease of bone.

Although these risk factors for sarcoma may not cause cancer directly, they can influence the development of the condition. Hence, it is important to know them and consult a doctor for timely treatment and care.