how to recognize warning signs

Bone cancer is a rare type of sarcoma, but its incidence has been increasing in recent years. According to Statista, 356 deaths from this disease were recorded in Spain in 2022. Although it is not common, its impact is significant and can come in a variety of forms, affecting both children and adults.

This type of cancer is characterized by abnormal growth of bone cells, especially in the thigh bone. Although rare, there are several types of bone cancer, some of which are more common in children and young adults, while others primarily affect older adults, according to the Mayo Clinic’s health portal.

MAIN SYMPTOMS OF BONE CANCER

The most common signs include:

– Constant bone pain.
– Inflammation and tenderness in the affected area.
– Bone weakness, which can lead to spontaneous fractures.
– Excessive fatigue.
– Weight loss for no apparent reason.

These symptoms may vary according to intensity depending on type and stage of cancer, but they are usually warning signs that you need to see a specialist.

THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF BONE CANCER

According to the Mayo Clinic, bone cancer can present differently depending on your Type of affected cells:

– Ewing’s sarcoma: This type affects both the bone and surrounding soft tissue. It is more common in children and young adults and usually develops in the pelvis or legs.
– Osteosarcoma: This is the most common bone cancer, especially among teenagers and young adults, although it can also appear in children and older adults. It is located predominantly in the long bones of the limbs, such as legs or arms.
– Chondrosarcoma: begins in cartilage tissue of bonesmore common in middle-aged and older people. Most often it affects the pelvis, thigh and shoulders.

RISK AND PREVENTION FACTORS

Although most cases of bone cancer are sporadic, certain factors increase your risk of developing the disease:

– Inherited genetic syndromes such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome or hereditary retinoblastoma.
– Previous bone diseases such as Paget’s disease or fibrous dysplasia.
– Previous treatment with radiation or chemotherapy, which may increase the risk. development of secondary bone tumors.

Currently, according to the Spanish Cancer Association, there is no specific way to prevent this disease, since most cases are associated with genetic factors and occur in isolation.

HOW TO DETERMINE THE STAGE OF BONE CANCER

To classify the stage of the disease, doctors evaluate:

– Size and location of the tumor.
– Rate of cancer growth.
– The extent of damage to the bones or spine.
– Possible spread to lymph nodes or other organs.

This analysis allows us to develop the appropriate treatment for each case, improving the patient’s prospects for recovery.