This week during Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month, Toby Perkins MP met with cancer charity Sarcoma UK to discuss the charity’s work in taking action for children, teenagers and young adults diagnosed with sarcoma.  

Every day in the UK, someone aged 0-24 is diagnosed with sarcoma.  

Sarcomas are uncommon cancers that can affect any part of the body. There are many different types of sarcoma, however all subtypes of sarcoma can be grouped into soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas.  

Sarcomas have a worse survival rate than average for cancers affecting this age range. They are 15% less likely to survive for 5 years than the average CTYA cancer, and sarcoma can be among the deadliest types.  

This April, cancer charities from across the UK have come together for the first Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month. So young people can share their stories and be listened to. Together, we can tackle the challenges and make a change.  

Sarcoma UK also welcomed Ellie Cooper, aged 18, who was diagnosed with Ewings sarcoma in 2021. Ellie bravely spoke of her experiences with sarcoma as a young person.  

Toby Perkins MP said: 

‘I’m proud to work with Sarcoma UK to help spread awareness of this rare cancer in young people.’ 

‘A young person’s life can be devastated by this horrific type of cancer, at a time when they are meant to learning, exploring and enjoying their youth’. 

‘It is clear to see that more needs to be done to support young people, and to improve their experience through specialised services and research. Change is urgently needed.’ 

‘It’s great to see this charity raising public awareness about sarcoma and its symptoms, while funding vital research into better treatments and supporting patients and loved ones through the Sarcoma UK Support Line.’ 

Dr Sorrel Bickley, Director of Research, Policy and Support at Sarcoma UK said: 

‘We must raise awareness of the distinct challenges this age group face and improve outcomes for young people with cancer. Sarcoma UK welcomes the support of Toby Perkins MP in boosting awareness of sarcoma in teenagers and young people, and putting sarcoma on the agenda.’ 

Sarcoma UK Support Line experts are here for every person affected by sarcoma. Talk to us or email for information and support.    

Phone: 0808 801 0401    

Email: supportline@sarcoma.org.uk