Kidney cancer, also called kidney cancer, is a serious health problem that affects many people around the world. World Kidney Cancer Day is celebrated every year on the second Thursday of June to raise awareness about this disease. In 2024, it falls on June 20. This day reminds us that we must learn about kidney cancer, its symptoms, causes and treatments. It is important to understand how we can reduce our risk and help people with this disease. Here’s what you need to know about kidney cancer.
Regular medical checkups are important to identify kidney diseases, including kidney cancer, because early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes. Kidney cancer, in particular, often causes no symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to detect without routine screening. Regular health checks that include blood and urine tests can help identify any abnormalities that may indicate kidney disease or cancer.
CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS
Kidney cancer occurs when unusual cells in the kidneys begin to grow uncontrollably. The exact reason why kidney cancer develops is not always known, but some factors can increase the chances of developing it. These factors include smoking, being overweight, having high blood pressure, certain genetic conditions, and undergoing long-term dialysis.
When kidney cancer is in its early stages, it may not show any noticeable signs. But as the cancer progresses, common symptoms may appear such as blood in the urine (hematuria), continuous pain in the back or side, a lump or mass in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, feeling tired, and occasional fever. .
Dr Radheshyam Chaudhary, expert consultant in urology and kidney transplant at Jupiter Hospital, Pune, says certain populations are more susceptible to kidney diseases and kidney cancer. Some factors that may increase the risk of developing these conditions include:
1. Age: The risk of kidney disease and kidney cancer increases with age, especially after age 60.
2. Family history: People with a family history of kidney disease or kidney cancer may be at higher risk of developing these conditions.
3. Gender: Men generally have a higher risk of developing kidney disease and kidney cancer compared to women.
4. Smokers: Smoking is a major risk factor for developing kidney cancer. People who smoke cigarettes should consider getting screened regularly.
5. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing kidney cancer. People with a higher body mass index (BMI) may benefit from routine screening.
6. High blood pressure: Hypertension is also a risk factor for kidney cancer. People with high blood pressure should discuss screening options with their healthcare provider.
7. Occupational exposure: Some occupations, such as those that involve exposure to certain chemicals or substances, can increase the risk of kidney cancer. People in these occupations should consider regular exams.
5. Certain diseases, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of kidney disease and kidney cancer.
For prostate cancer, risk factors and susceptible populations may differ slightly:
1. Age: The risk of prostate cancer increases with age, especially after age 50. It is rare in men under 40 years of age, but becomes more common with advancing age.
2. Family history: People with a family history of prostate cancer, especially in first-degree relatives, have a higher risk of developing the disease.
3. Lifestyle factors: Diet, exercise, and exposure to certain environmental factors can also influence the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Regular medical checkups, including screening for kidney disease and prostate cancer, are important for early detection and timely intervention. It is essential that people, particularly those in susceptible populations, prioritize preventive health care and discuss their risk factors with health care providers to determine the appropriate screening program and testing.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate screening program based on individual risk factors and medical history. Early detection of kidney cancer can greatly improve treatment outcomes and overall prognosis.
Detection techniques
Speaking of screening techniques to detect kidney cancer, Dr Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Chief Medical Advisor, City X-ray and Scan Clinic, said: “Different imaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound, can be used to identify tumors or abnormal growths in the kidneys. The detection and staging of kidney cancer is made easier with the use of these tests. If a concerning lump is identified through imaging, a biopsy may be performed. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is taken to look for malignant cells. It provides details about the type and severity of kidney cancer and helps confirm it.”
Although there is still no common screening test for the public, those who are at increased risk for kidney cancer should talk to their doctor about screening alternatives. Early detection of kidney cancer can lead to more therapy options, fewer intrusive treatments, and higher long-term survival rates for affected patients.
Here are five lifestyle mistakes that can damage kidneys, according to Dr Prakash Chandra Shetty, urologist at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai:
1. Eat junk food: Nowadays, many people eat a lot of processed and junk food, which is high in sodium and phosphorus. This can lead to high blood pressure and kidney problems, especially in those who already have kidney disease and need to limit phosphorus in their diet.
2. Excessive use of painkillers: Some people develop the habit of taking pain relievers and NSAIDs frequently for headaches or joint pain. These medications can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney cancer over time.
3. Dehydration: Not drinking enough water each day can impair kidney function and make it difficult to eliminate toxins from the body. Adequate water intake helps prevent kidney damage and reduces the risk of kidney stones and other problems by eliminating crystals and toxins through urine.
4. Smoking and alcohol consumption: Regular alcohol consumption can increase the risk of chronic kidney disease due to dehydration and high blood pressure. Smoking also increases the risk of developing renal cell carcinomas (RCC).
5. High protein diets: Consuming too much protein, especially from non-vegetarian sources, can strain the kidneys as they work hard to remove toxins from the body. Over time, this can lead to kidney disease.
These lifestyle choices can have serious consequences for kidney health, so it is important to be aware of them and take steps to protect your kidneys.
