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SARC Launches Enhanced Sarcoma Centers Directory

The Sarcoma Alliance for Research Through Collaboration (SARC) is excited to unveil an expanded Sarcoma Centers Directory (SCD) designed to bridge the gap between sarcoma patients and specialized care. This comprehensive resource aims to connect individuals with the expertise needed for the treatment of rare and ultra-rare sarcomas, affecting bones and soft tissues.

Sarcomas are complex cancers that can occur anywhere in the body, affecting patients of all ages. They encompass a wide array of tumor types, estimated to range from 50 to 100 different molecular subtypes. Each subtype is critical in determining the appropriate systemic therapies for patients. Dr. Chappie Conrad, Chair of the SCD Steering Committee, emphasized the importance of finding specialized care: “Sarcomas require expert teams to navigate the intricacies of diagnosis and treatment due to their rarity and complexity.”

The expanded SCD will be officially presented at the upcoming SARC Semiannual Meeting, which is set to take place on May 30, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois. Registration is required to attend this pivotal event. The directory features a user-friendly online tool that allows patients and caregivers to quickly locate sarcoma centers across the United States and globally.

Key Features of the Sarcoma Centers Directory

1. Expert Center Mapping
The SCD includes an online directory and a dynamic map, pinpointing sarcoma centers around the world where specialized care is available.

2. Sarcoma Reference Guide
This guide provides insights into soft tissue and bone sarcoma diagnoses, complete with referral recommendations and a directory of associated patient advocacy organizations.

3. Helpline/Support Services
SARC offers a helpline, staffed by knowledgeable individuals, aimed at assisting patients in connecting with leading sarcoma specialists and valuable resources.

4. Clinical Trials Matching
The SCD also facilitates the matching of patients to ongoing sarcoma clinical trials, which is powered by Antidote, an essential tool for advancing treatment options.

About SARC

Founded in 2003, SARC is a non-profit charity focused on improving patient outcomes through collaborative efforts in sarcoma research. Their goal is to enhance progress in preventing and treating sarcoma in hopes of finding a cure. By fostering partnerships among some of the world’s most renowned cancer centers, SARC is instrumental in conducting numerous Phase I-III clinical trials across nearly 100 medical centers with focused sarcoma programs.

Understanding Sarcoma

Sarcomas affect the bony skeleton—such as the skull, vertebrae, and ribs—as well as soft tissues like muscle and fat. While these cancers disproportionately affect children and young adults, they can occur at any age, presenting significant diagnostic and treatment challenges. SARC and its collaborators are dedicated to advancing the science behind sarcomas to ultimately improve clinical outcomes for all patients.

With its newly launched resources, SARC is taking significant steps to enhance the support and care available to those impacted by sarcomas. As the semiannual meeting approaches, anticipation builds for this crucial update in the fight against these challenging forms of cancer.