Kidney cancer is a rare disease, accounting for only around one percent of all cancers in children. However, it can be a serious condition that requires treatment to prevent complications or spread to other organs.

While the exact cause of kidney cancer in children is not known, several factors have been identified that increase the risk of developing this condition.

1. Genetics

Some children may be more likely to develop kidney cancer because of genetic factors.

Inherited conditions, such as Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome, and hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer, are linked to an increased risk of developing kidney cancer. These conditions can affect the way cells grow and divide, ultimately leading to the formation of cancerous cells in the kidneys.

2. Age

Kidney cancer is most commonly diagnosed in adults over the age of 40. However, children of any age can develop kidney cancer. In general, children who are diagnosed with kidney cancer tend to be younger than adults who are diagnosed with the disease.

The risk of developing kidney cancer in children increases with age.

3. Gender

Boys are more likely to develop kidney cancer than girls. The exact reason for this is not known, but some studies suggest that hormonal differences between boys and girls may play a role in the development of kidney cancer.

4. Race

Kidney cancer is more common in children of African American descent than in children of other races. The reason for this is unclear, but it may be related to genetic or environmental factors.

5. Environmental Exposures

Exposure to certain environmental factors may increase a child’s risk of developing kidney cancer. These factors include exposure to radiation or chemicals such as asbestos, benzene, or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

Children who have had radiation therapy to the abdomen or pelvic area are also at an increased risk of developing kidney cancer.

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6. Kidney Problems

Children who have certain kidney problems may be at an increased risk of developing kidney cancer. Conditions such as chronic kidney disease or dialysis treatment may increase the risk of kidney cancer.

Certain kidney tumors, such as Wilms’ tumor, may also increase the risk of developing kidney cancer later in life.

7. Obesity

Obesity may increase a child’s risk of developing kidney cancer. This may be because obesity can cause changes in hormone levels and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of cancerous cells.

8. Family History

Children who have a family history of kidney cancer are at an increased risk of developing the disease.

If a child’s parent, sibling, or other close relative has been diagnosed with kidney cancer, the child may be more likely to develop the disease.

9. Smoking

Although kidney cancer is rare in children, smoking increases the risk of developing the disease in adults. Children who are exposed to secondhand smoke may also be at an increased risk of developing kidney cancer later in life.

10. Alcohol Use

Alcohol use does not directly increase a child’s risk of developing kidney cancer. However, heavy alcohol use can lead to chronic liver disease, which may increase the risk of developing kidney cancer.

While these factors may increase a child’s risk of developing kidney cancer, it is important to remember that most children who have these risk factors will never develop the disease.

Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can help detect any potential health concerns early, allowing for prompt treatment and improved outcomes.