There are a several risk factors that can increase the chance of developing osteosarcoma. Most of these factors are uncontrollable, such as age and gender, and cannot be changed, but in making smart health choices, risk of developing osteosarcoma can at least be minimized.

However, there are certain genetic or health conditions which cannot be altered by lifestyle choices, and individuals affected by these conditions should be closely monitored by their physicians. One of these medical disorders which has been linked to osteosarcoma is Paget’s Disease, a genetic bone condition. As a preventive measure, individuals with Paget’s should also consult with a osteosarcoma specialist to check for any signs of cancer.

While there might be some hesitation in seeing a new doctor, osteosarcoma is a very rare cancer and a physician who is an expert in the disease is the best one qualified for a consultation. One of the most renowned is Dr. Sant Chawla, director of the Sarcoma Oncology Center. Many prominent doctors recommend Dr. Chawla to their patients because they are confident in Dr. Chawla’s expertise and knowledge of osteosarcoma.

Characteristics of Paget’s Disease

While researchers have not yet found conclusive evidence, it’s considered that Paget’s could either be caused by a viral bone infection or hereditary factors. The disorder typically appears later in life with older adults and is more common in men than in women.

The disease itself affects bones, causing them to grow larger than normal, which ends up weakening them. Our bones grow and renew throughout our lives through a process called remodeling, so with Paget’s, it isn’t the fact that bones are changing, but that the change that is occurring is an abnormal one.

Paget’s accelerates the remodeling process with old bone breaking down more quickly which disrupts the normal growth process. New bone development eventually adjusts to the faster pace and speeds up on its own. The pace is too fast for healthy bone growth, and the regrowth ends up softer and weaker than normal. The effect of this accelerated process causes bone pain, fractures, and deformities.

Paget’s Disease as an Osteosarcoma Risk

Since osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer linked to abnormal bone growth, this makes it a rare but possible complication of Paget’s disease as an osteosarcoma risk.

The chances of developing osteosarcoma are minimal but it is necessary to monitor yourself for any signs of cancer. Seeing a specialist like Dr. Chawla for medical guidance is a recommended course of action.

Call the Osteosarcoma Specialists

Osteosarcoma is linked to several serious health conditions like Paget’s Disease. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with it, you should contact the knowledgeable oncologists at the Sarcoma Cancer Center for information. Call today at 310-552-9999 to schedule a consultation.

Next, learn about bone cancer treatment.