Guide Note

Bone cancer is cancer of the bone. Most often the cancer will start in the larger bones of the legs and arms.

Bone cancer that begins in the bones is very rare. Most bone cancers spread to the bone after beginning in another region of the body.

Fast Facts

1. Less than 0.2% of all cancers¹
2. Common in children and young adults
3. Types: Chondrosarcoma, Ewing's Sarcoma and Osteosarcoma

Bone cancer's most common symptom is pain. Other symptoms include anemia, weight loss, fatigue, fever and joint swelling. Sometimes the bone is weakened by the cancer and can fracture.

Treatment for bone cancer is chemotherapy, radiation treatment and surgery. Treatment varies based on each individual's health and the extent of the cancer. Often more than one type of treatment will be used, such as using chemotherapy to shrink the tumor and then surgery to remove it.

In the past, amputation was common for cancer of the arm and leg bones. With the advancements of surgical techniques, this treatment is less common as it once was.

In 2008, there were 1,470 deaths due to bone cancer and 2,380 new cases.²

Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have bone cancer, please consult your doctor.