Bone cancer

Doctors often refer to primary bone cancers as bone sarcoma. There are more than 30 different types of primary bone cancers, and the three regarded as being the most common are:²

• Osteosarcoma– usually starts in cells that grow bone tissue
  
• Chondrosarcoma– usually starts in cells that grow cartilage
• Ewing sarcoma – usually affects cells in the bone or soft tissue that can multiply rapidly

A common symptom of bone cancer is pain or tenderness in the bones or joints, which may worsen at night or during movement.² Other symptoms may include but are not limited to:²

• Swelling over the affected area
  
• Bone stiffness or tenderness
• Unintended weight loss
• Fatigue
• A fracture
• Issues with movement

If you have any of these symptoms, it doesn't necessarily mean that you have bone cancer. It is recommended to speak with your GP or specialist about any concerns or questions that you may have.

There is no clear cause of bone cancer. However, some factors appear to increase the risk. These may include:^1,2

• Inherited genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome or hereditary retinoblastoma
  
• Paget's disease or other bone conditions
• Radiation therapy for cancer, particularly during childhood

The recommended treatment options for bone cancer will depend on a range of factors including the type of cancer, how advanced it is, location, and your own individual circumstances and preferences.¹ Treatments may include one or a combination of:^1,2

• Chemotherapy - Chemotherapy is an approach to cancer therapy which involves the administration of medicine, usually orally or by injection, which is intended to kill cancer cells or minimise their growth and spread. Chemotherapy can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments.
• Radiation therapy - Radiation therapy uses high energy X-rays or other particles to treat cancer and can be used at all stages.
• Surgery - Surgery for bone cancer is often combined with other treatments. The surgeon will discuss options directly with patients, and where possible the bone cancer will be removed, with the aim being to spare the limb.

All cancer treatments may have side effects.^5,6 The type and severity of side effects will vary between individuals.^5,6 You can ask your doctor for detailed information about the side effects which you may experience with any treatment recommended for you.

• Rest when needed – it is important to acknowledge when you are fatigued and rest when you need to ^5,6
  
• Aim to maintain a healthy diet,⁵ and we also encourage you to think about eating foods that interest you rather than what you think you should eat
• Appetite changes are common, and you may experience taste changes or nausea. Help manage this by eating small, frequent snacks and avoiding smells that make you nauseous ⁵
• Drink adequate water ⁵
• Reach out to support groups and others who have had cancer treatment ⁶
• Record your side effects in a diary or journal ⁷
• Speak to your doctor about incorporating some gentle exercise into your weekly routine ^5,6
• Ask for and accept help from family, friends and neighbours ⁶
• Be open with employers about your treatment and discuss flexible working options if you need them