Childhood Bone Cancer Survival Rates Surge with Advances in Chemotherapy
São Paulo – A concerning rise in osteosarcoma diagnoses, the most common type of bone cancer, is prompting renewed focus on early detection and treatment advancements that are dramatically improving survival rates for children and young adults. While rare, representing less than 3% of all childhood cancers, osteosarcoma demands swift medical attention due to it’s aggressive nature.
Osteosarcoma primarily affects adolescents and young adults, though it can occur at any age. The disease occurs when the bone cells begin to grow uncontrollably, often near the ends of long bones in the arms and legs. “Persistent and continuous bone pain, which extends to nighttime pain, sometimes waking the child up due to the pain, is a characteristic that already generates suspicion,” warns a specialist. This pain is distinct from typical growing pains and requires thorough medical investigation for early diagnosis.
Symptoms often include pain that worsens over time and is usually present in the affected region. It’s crucial to differentiate these pains from the normal discomfort associated with growth spurts. Early diagnosis is paramount, as the cancer can spread quickly.
Treatment for osteosarcoma typically involves a combination of chemotherapy and surgery to remove the tumor. The timing of chemotherapy – before or after surgery – is resolute on a case-by-case basis. “More conventional osteosarcomas are very sensitive to chemotherapy, which is very positive,” the specialist notes.
Significant progress in treatment protocols over recent decades has led to substantial improvements in survival rates.In the 1980s, when treatment consisted solely of surgery, the 5-year survival rate for patients with osteosarcoma was only 10%. Today, with the addition of chemotherapy, the average 5-year survival rate has climbed to nearly 60%.
Depending on the specific type of disease, survival rates can even reach 80%. “And it can reach 80% depending on the type of disease. But it is really a very important phase of the treatment,” the doctor concludes, highlighting the critical role of chemotherapy in successful outcomes. Ongoing research continues to refine treatment strategies and further improve the prognosis for individuals diagnosed with this challenging cancer.
