Edinburgh scientists find a rare, aggressive cancer's survival odds depend heavily on WHERE the tumour grows in the body

University of Edinburgh researchers analysed records from more than 11,700 leiomyosarcoma patients in what is described as the most comprehensive survival study of the disease to date. Tumours located in the uterus, urinary tract and trunk were linked to the lowest survival rates. Patients fared considerably better when cancer developed in the limbs, head and neck or male reproductive tract. Until now, clinicians have typically classified cases as simply uterine or non-uterine.

Leiomyosarcoma attacks the smooth muscle that lines organs including the stomach, intestines, uterus and blood vessels.

Black, widowed and lower-income patients suffered significantly poorer outcomes, the study found.

Study lead Dr Robb Hollis called the findings 'critical' for designing future treatment trials.