Bone cancer is a serious condition, but it is not always fatal. The outlook for people with bone cancer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of bone cancer, the stage at which it is diagnosed, and the person’s age and overall health. Some types of bone cancer are more aggressive and have a lower survival rate than others, but most types of bone cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy.
In general, the survival rate for bone cancer is lower than that of many other types of cancer because it is often diagnosed at a later stage, when the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. However, early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of survival. For example, the 5-year survival rate for osteosarcoma (the most common type of bone cancer in children and young adults) is about 70% when the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage and has not spread to other parts of the body. The survival rate is lower when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, but it can still be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy.
It’s important to keep in mind that these are just general estimates and that every case of bone cancer is different. The best way to understand your prognosis and treatment options is to speak with your doctor and oncologist.