Can fatty tumors turn to cancer?

Lipomas are usually benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, in rare cases, lipomas can turn into a type of cancer called liposarcoma. Liposarcomas are more common in people who have had radiation therapy or who have certain genetic conditions.

The risk of a lipoma turning into liposarcoma is very low. However, it is important to see your doctor if you have a lipoma that is growing rapidly or is causing pain. Your doctor can order tests to determine if the lipoma is cancerous.

If a lipoma does turn into liposarcoma, it is usually treated with surgery. In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be used.

Here are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing liposarcoma:

* Maintain a healthy weight

* Exercise regularly

* Avoid exposure to radiation

* Talk to your doctor about any genetic conditions you may have that increase your risk of liposarcoma