Sarcoma Bone Cancer

Often deemed as the “forgotten cancer” because of its rarity, sarcomas are cancers that start in the bone, muscle, connective tissue, blood vessels or fat, and can be found anywhere in the body.

Bone sarcomas are rare with 2,890 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year.

Sarcomas in adults make up 1% of all cancer diagnoses. Bone cancer can begin in any bone in the body, but it mostly affects the pelvis or the long bones in the arms and legs. They are relatively more common among children. Between 1,500 and 1,700 children are diagnosed with a bone or soft tissue sarcoma in the U.S. each year. This makes up about 15% of cancers in children under the age of 20.

Bone cancer can be broken down into three categories:

- Chondrosarcoma-a rare type of cancer that usually begins in the bones, but can sometimes occur in the soft tissue near bones.

- Ewing (YOO-ing) Sarcoma-a rare type of cancer that occurs in bones or in the soft tissue around the bones.

- Osteosarcoma-the most common type of bone cancer, which begins in cells that form bones.

Some important signs and symptoms of bone cancer include:

• Bone pain

• Swelling and tenderness near the affected area

• Weakened bone, leading to fracture

• Fatigue

• Unintended weight loss

While the cause of most bone cancers is unknown, a small number of bone cancers have been linked to hereditary factors, while others are related to previous radiation exposure.

The treatment options for your bone cancer are based on the type of cancer you have, the stage of the cancer, your overall health and your preferences. Chemotherapy with surgery is often the primary treatment, while more drastic measures include limb amputation.

If you are concerned with any of the above symptoms, you meet would with one of our specialists at 1-833-CANCER9, or visit us at www.nycancer.com.