Don't Ignore Lumps Around Your Joints, They Could Be a Sign of Bone Cancer

Illustration of bone cancer. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Bone cancer is a rare disease, but its impact can be very serious on the quality of life of sufferers.

This disease not only disrupts motor function but can also affect the patient's emotional and social well-being. That's why understanding the symptoms early is crucial for faster treatment.

Muhammad Wahyudi, an Orthopedic Traumatology Specialist and Oncology Consultant at Eka Hospital BSD Tangerang, explained that some of the early signs of bone cancer often resemble common health complaints and are therefore easily overlooked.

"Fatigue, fever, and drastic unexplained weight loss are some of the symptoms of bone cancer," Wahyudi said at a recent Eka Hospital media gathering in Jakarta.

He added that other symptoms to watch out for include bone pain that worsens at night or during activity. Sometimes lumps appear around the joints that are tender to the touch.

"Another symptom that can be felt is bone weakness, making them prone to fracture, even without serious injury," he said.

Medically, bone cancer is divided into several types. Osteosarcoma, for example, is common in children and adolescents because it occurs in bone tissue that is still developing.

Ewing's Sarcoma also affects younger people and usually develops in the bone marrow. Meanwhile, Chondrosarcoma is more common in adults and develops from cartilage tissue.

"Without proper treatment, bone cancer can spread to other organs. Effective treatment can reduce this risk and increase the chances of recovery," Wahyudi emphasized.

Although the exact cause is unknown, suspected risk factors include a genetic history, certain bone diseases, or prior radiation therapy. To confirm a diagnosis, doctors will usually perform a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and PET scans.

"Another method is a bone biopsy. This is the most accurate procedure for diagnosis. A sample of bone tissue is taken and examined in a laboratory to confirm the presence of cancer cells," he added.

For the public, maintaining bone health is not just about avoiding injury. A healthy lifestyle—such as regular exercise, consuming foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, and avoiding smoking and alcohol—can help keep bones strong. Early detection is also key to more effective treatment.

Treatment options for bone cancer are quite diverse, ranging from surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, to targeted therapy and immunotherapy. "This last option depends on the case and can be used to specifically target cancer cells or boost the patient's immune system response," explained Wahyudi.

With a better understanding of bone cancer, the public is expected to be more aware of the early signs that appear. Education and a healthy lifestyle are not only beneficial for prevention, but also provide a greater chance of recovery for those diagnosed.