Are children more likely to get bone cancer?

The chance of children getting bone cancer is relatively low, but bone cancer is still one of the most common malignant tumors in children and adolescents. The incidence of bone cancer is about 3 per million, mainly concentrated in the age group of 10 to 20 years old. The occurrence of bone cancer is related to genetics, environmental factors, physiological factors, trauma and pathology.

1. Genetic factors

Certain genetic diseases increase a child's risk of bone cancer. For example, people with Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma are more likely to develop bone cancer. Children with a family history of bone cancer also have an increased risk of the disease. It is recommended that children with a family history of the disease undergo regular health checks to detect potential risks early.

2. Environmental factors

Long-term exposure to radioactive substances or chemical carcinogens may increase the risk of bone cancer. For example, children who have received radiation therapy, especially for other cancers, may develop bone cancer later. Reducing exposure to harmful substances and maintaining a healthy living environment are important preventive measures.

3. Physiological factors

Children's bones are in a period of rapid growth, and cell division is active, which increases the risk of gene mutation. Adolescence is a high-risk period for bone cancer, which may be related to changes in hormone levels. Paying attention to children's growth and development and promptly detecting abnormal symptoms, such as persistent bone pain or swelling, can help with early diagnosis.

4. Trauma

Although trauma itself does not directly lead to bone cancer, repeated bone injuries may induce local abnormal cell proliferation. Preventing children from participating in high-risk sports and paying attention to bone protection can reduce potential risks.

5. Pathological factors

Some benign bone tumors or bone diseases may develop into malignant tumors. For example, fibrous dysplasia and osteochondroma may become malignant in some cases. Regular follow-up and treatment of related bone diseases can reduce the risk of bone cancer.

Treatment:

1. Drug treatment

Chemotherapy is an important treatment for bone cancer. Commonly used drugs include methotrexate, cisplatin, and doxorubicin. Targeted drugs such as pazopanib are also used to treat certain types of bone cancer. Drug therapy can effectively control tumor growth and relieve symptoms.

2. Surgical treatment

Surgical resection is the main treatment for bone cancer, including tumor resection, amputation and limb-salvage surgery. Limb-salvage surgery preserves limb function as much as possible by implanting a prosthesis or transplanting bones. Combining surgery with chemotherapy can improve the cure rate.

3. Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is used for tumors that cannot be removed surgically or as an adjuvant therapy after surgery. High-energy rays can kill cancer cells and shrink the size of tumors. Radiation therapy requires precise control of the dose to reduce damage to normal tissues.

Prevention and Early Detection:

Parents should pay attention to their children's bone health and conduct regular physical examinations. If children have unexplained bone pain, swelling, or limited mobility, they should seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are the key to improving the cure rate of bone cancer.

Although the incidence of childhood bone cancer is low, once it occurs, it has a huge impact on the family and the child. Understanding the risk factors of bone cancer, taking effective preventive measures, and early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis. Parents and medical staff should work together to provide comprehensive health protection for children.