About Bone Cancer

Malignant Tumors of the Musculoskeletal System
Most of the malignant tumors of the musculoskeletal system are described as Sarcomas. These tumors can occur at any location. Over 50 subtype's have been identified, ranging histologically from low grade to high grade tumors. These tumors have age predilection striking both children and adults. Some types of sarcoma have predilection to appear in children more so than in elderly patients. About 1% of all sarcomas are primary sarcomas, which originate without a preexisting condition. At any time there are approximately 50,000 people struggling with sarcomas. Every year there are approximately 4,000 new cases in the USA.

Coping with A Child who has a Malignant Tumor
As a parent you spend a large amount of time protecting your child and raising him/her with all of your love and devotion. Your worst nightmare was when your child became ill and your doctor informed you that your child has a malignant tumor, a life threatening condition. As your anxiety increases you look to seek how you can digest this information. From then on you have had to absorb all the information and struggle to be strong for your child. There will be moments of sadness and happiness and you have to channel all the information to the rest of the family.

Let your child know how you are feeling. Acknowledge your fears and say that you are frightened but at the same time reassure your child that you will be with him/her all of the way. Tell your child that the best choices are being made with regard to his/her treatment. Your child needs you to be strong. Your child also needs you to know that there is hope for a cure. How much information you should share with your child depends on your child's age and maturity.

Treatment of malignant tumors is complex and involves a multidisciplinary team approach. Explain to your child each step of the treatment. The more information you provide the more comfortable your child will be. Use words that are reassuring when talking about the long term prognosis. If your child asks about the risk of dying acknowledge that it is possible but explain that there are promising treatments. Let your child know more about the tests being conducted. Encourage your child to ask more questions and let him/her feel that they are a part of the decision making process. Allow your child to enjoy activities that he/she enjoys and loves.

Resources:
People Living with Cancer Website