Bone cancer is a rare form of cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, but it can affect any and all bones within your body. Bone cancer commonly occurs when you have cancer in another part of your body, such as breast or prostate cancer, and it spreads to your bones. Osteosarcoma typically affects those younger than 20 years of age while chondrosarcoma primarily affects those older than 20.
Bone Cancer Risk Factors
Certain types of people are at a greater risk of developing bone cancer. Those who are exposed to herbicides, insecticides and benzene are at a greater risk of developing multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that primarily affects adults, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Others who are at risk of developing this cancer include those older than 68, African Americans and people who have had prior radiation exposure. People younger than 20 are at a greater risk of developing osteosarcoma as are those who are genetically predisposed to the condition, or who have benign tumors or other bone diseases. Males seem to have a greater tendency to develop osteosarcoma than females.
Symptoms of Bone Cancer
While the symptoms of bone cancer may affect everyone differently and at different stages, you may notice that you've begun to lose weight and feel tired easily. The area of bones affected by cancer may be sensitive to the touch and have localized swelling. Your bones may become weak as the cancer begins to attack them and easily sustain an injury such as a fracture or a break.
Calcium and Healthy Bones
Calcium helps your bones grow and helps strengthen them, as well as your teeth. Without calcium, your bones would become weak and brittle and break easily. A lack of calcium in your diet can leave you more prone to develop conditions such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis; both are conditions resulting from frail, weak bones. The majority of your body's calcium supply is stored in your teeth and bones, but a small amount does circulate throughout your blood. Calcium is found in foods such as dairy products, fish and leafy green vegetables.
Calcium and Cancer
Calcium decreases the risk of pre-cancerous colon polyps but it cannot slow the growth any type of cancer, including bone cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, calcium supplements along with the use of vitamin D supplements may decrease the risk of developing some cancers, but there is not enough evidence to back these claims; more studies and research are required to confirm or prove the benefits of both supplements. Effective bone cancer treatments include surgery, radiation, amputation and chemotherapy, according to MedlinePlus.
