According to Dr Saurabh, general symptoms are often overlooked because they are not specific to bone cancer.
Although these symptoms can occur in many illnesses, they should not be ignored when combined with persistent bone pain or swelling.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Saurabh Gupta, senior director and unit head, surgical oncology, Max Hospital, Dwarka, shared common early signs that indicate bone cancer.
Also read | Oncoplastic surgeon shares why breast cancer is rising among younger women and the early signs we often overlookPersistent bone pain According to Dr Saurabh Gupta, the most common early sign of bone cancer is persistent bone pain.
“Unlike pain from a minor injury, it does not improve with rest or simple pain-relieving medicines,” added Dr Gupta.
“It is important to remember that most cases of bone pain or swelling are not caused by cancer. However, symptoms that last for more than a few weeks, continue to worsen, or occur without a clear cause should be assessed by a healthcare professional,” said Dr Gupta. Doctors may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays , MRI scans, or CT scans, and sometimes a biopsy to determine the exact cause.
According to Dr Saurabh, general symptoms are often overlooked because they are not specific to bone cancer. These include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, fever, or a general feeling of being unwell. Although these symptoms can occur in many illnesses, they should not be ignored when combined with persistent bone pain or swelling.
Some people experience difficulty using a limb, such as limping, reduced range of motion, or weakness in an arm or leg. In some cases, the affected bone becomes weak and may fracture after a minor fall or even during normal daily activities. Such fractures, known as pathological fractures, require prompt medical evaluation.
Bone cancer is a rare disease, but recognising its early warning signs can make a significant difference. Many people ignore these symptoms because they resemble common problems such as muscle strain, arthritis, sports injuries, or growing pains in children and teenagers. While these symptoms are usually caused by non-cancerous conditions, persistent or unexplained complaints should never be ignored. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Saurabh Gupta, senior director and unit head, surgical oncology, Max Hospital, Dwarka, shared common early signs that indicate bone cancer.
Also read | Oncoplastic surgeon shares why breast cancer is rising among younger women and the early signs we often overlook
Persistent bone pain According to Dr Saurabh Gupta, the most common early sign of bone cancer is persistent bone pain. At first, the pain may come and go, often becoming worse at night or during physical activity. Over time, it may become constant and more severe. “Unlike pain from a minor injury, it does not improve with rest or simple pain-relieving medicines,” added Dr Gupta.
