Published Date:
25 June 2008
- The most common types of bone cancer are osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma.
- About 400 young people develop primary bone cancer each year in the UK and Ireland.
- They are most common in young people aged between 10 and 20 – the average age of diagnosis is 15.
- Most cases do not have a specific cause, though the development of bone cancers seems to be related to rapid growth.
- The survival rate for osteosarcoma is 55 per cent at five years after diagnosis and for Ewing's sarcoma, 60 per cent.
- From having the first symptom to being diagnosed, it takes on average five months for Ewing's sarcoma and more than three months for osteosarcoma.
- Young people in the UK with Ewing's sarcoma are more likely to have bigger tumours or cancer that has spread than those diagnosed in France or Germany.
- Symptoms include pain and swelling and problems with movement. Anyone with bone pain lasting longer than a few weeks should seek medical advice.
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Last Updated:
25 June 2008 9:10 AM
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Source:
EP Leeds First & County
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Location:
Leeds