Introduction: Bone tumors, though rare, are a significant health concern due to their impact on quality of life and survival, particularly in paediatric populations. Studying bone tumors in Bali is critical, given the region's unique environmental, genetic, and healthcare challenges. Factors such as agricultural chemicals, volcanic ash exposure, genetic diversity, and delayed healthcare access may influence tumor prevalence and outcomes. IGNG Prof Ngoerah General Hospital, as the primary referral center for eastern Indonesia, provides a unique opportunity to examine the epidemiology of bone tumors in this region. This study aims to analyze the prevalence, patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and treatment patterns to inform improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies .
Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 177 bone tumor cases diagnosed between 2020 and 2023. Data on patient demographics, tumor types, anatomical sites, and treatments were collected from medical records. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics version 25.0. Descriptive statistics summarized continuous and categorical variables. Chi-square tests were used to assess associations between age groups, gender, and tumor characteristics, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Linear regression analysis evaluated temporal trends.
Results: The majority of cases (58%) occurred in patients aged 0-15 years, with a slight female predominance (56%). Osteosarcoma was the most common tumor, primarily affecting the femur. Significant associations were identified between age groups and tumor types. Healthcare access limitations contributed to delayed presentations, particularly in rural areas .
Conclusion: This study highlights the need for early detection programme and improved diagnostic access in rural areas. Multidisciplinary care and public health strategies are essential to enhance outcomes. Further research on local risk factors is recommended.