Ewing's Sarcoma Causes & Risks

Causes

The causes of Ewing's sarcoma are not fully understood. Some potential contributing factors include:

Chromosomal rearrangement that alters the genes (fusion of the EWS gene to specific transcription factor genes)
Injury or trauma to the bone
Prior high-dose radiation exposure

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Because the causes of the cancer are unknown, risk factors are also not fully understood. The following factors may increase your chance of developing Ewing's sarcoma:

Having another congenital disease
Having had another malignancy, particularly one treated with radiotherapy

Other factors:

Ewing's sarcoma is not an inherited condition. Having family members who have the cancer does not increase the likelihood of developing the cancer.
Race: People who are of African American or Asian descent are at a significantly lower risk of developing Ewing's sarcoma than Caucasians.
Age: This tumor is more common among teenagers.
Gender: This tumor is slightly more common among males.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.