Ask a doctor - What are the risk factors for developing bone cancer?

Q. What are the risk factors for developing bone cancer?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

The exact causes of bone cancer are often unknown, but certain factors may increase the risk of developing bone cancer. Here are some common risk factors associated with bone cancer:

1. Age:
- Osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma, the two most common types of bone cancer in children and young adults, often occur in individuals under the age of 20.

2. Gender:
- Osteosarcoma occurs more frequently in males than females. Ewing sarcoma, on the other hand, has a more equal gender distribution.

3. Inherited Genetic Syndromes:
- Certain inherited genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma, are associated with an increased risk of bone cancer.

4. Paget's Disease of Bone:
- Paget's disease is a chronic condition that affects the normal replacement of old bone tissue with new bone tissue. In some cases, it may increase the risk of bone cancer.

5. Radiation Exposure:
- Previous exposure to high doses of ionizing radiation, whether for medical treatment or other reasons, is a known risk factor for bone cancer.

6. Bone Marrow Transplant:
- Individuals who have undergone a bone marrow transplant may have an increased risk of developing bone cancer, particularly osteosarcoma.

7. Chemical Exposures:
- Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals, such as beryllium and vinyl chloride, has been linked to an increased risk of bone cancer.

8. Metallic Implants:
- Some studies suggest a potential association between metallic implants, such as joint replacements, and the development of bone cancer, although the risk is generally considered to be low.

9. Injury or Trauma:
- While rare, some cases of bone cancer have been linked to a history of previous bone injuries or trauma. However, the relationship between injury and bone cancer is not well-established.

It's important to note that having one or more risk factors does not guarantee the development of bone cancer. Many people diagnosed with bone cancer do not have any known risk factors, and conversely, some individuals with risk factors never develop the disease. If someone has concerns about their risk or experiences symptoms, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and diagnosis can significantly impact the prognosis and treatment of bone cancer.