Kidney cancer is a disease that develops when the cells in your kidneys start to grow uncontrollably.

It is one of the top ten most common types of cancer in both men and women, with an estimated 73,750 new cases expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2021 alone. Kidney cancer can affect people of all ages but is more common in older adults.

What are the Risk Factors?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing kidney cancer. Some of the most significant risk factors include:.

: Age

The risk of kidney cancer increases as you get older. Most people diagnosed with kidney cancer are over 45, and the risk continues to increase as you age.

: Smoking

Smokers are twice as likely to develop kidney cancer as non-smokers. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke can damage the DNA in your cells, including the cells in your kidneys.

: Obesity

Obesity is also a significant risk factor for kidney cancer. Studies show that people with a higher body mass index (BMI) are more likely to develop kidney cancer than those with a healthier BMI.

: High Blood Pressure

People with high blood pressure are at a higher risk of developing kidney cancer than those with normal blood pressure.

: Family History

If you have a family history of kidney cancer, you have a higher risk of developing the disease yourself. This is especially true if a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, has been diagnosed with kidney cancer.

: Genetics

Some genetic disorders can also increase your risk of developing kidney cancer. For example, von Hippel-Lindau disease is an inherited condition that can cause kidney cancer, as well as other cancers.

What are the Symptoms?

Early-stage kidney cancer often doesn’t cause any symptoms. The symptoms of kidney cancer usually only appear once the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage. Some common symptoms of kidney cancer include:.

: Blood in the urine

One of the most common symptoms of kidney cancer is blood in the urine. The urine may appear pink, red, or brown. There may also be clots in the urine.

: Pain in your side or back

Some people with kidney cancer experience pain in their side or back, where the kidneys are located. This pain can be severe and may come and go.

: Lump or mass in the abdomen

Some people with kidney cancer may feel a lump or mass in their abdomen. This may be accompanied by swelling or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen.

: Unexplained weight loss

Some people with kidney cancer may experience unexplained weight loss, even if they haven’t changed their diet or exercise habits.

How is it Diagnosed?

If you have any of the symptoms of kidney cancer, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. They will likely start by performing a physical exam and taking your medical history. They may also order tests to help diagnose the disease.

Some of the most common diagnostic tests for kidney cancer include:.

: Urine tests

A urine test can help detect blood or other abnormalities in your urine that may indicate kidney cancer.

: Blood tests

A blood test can help detect elevated levels of certain proteins that may indicate kidney cancer.

: Imaging tests

Imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds, can help your doctor see inside your body and look for signs of kidney cancer.

: Kidney Biopsy

A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from your kidney and analyzing it under a microscope to look for cancer cells.

What are the Treatment Options?

The treatment options for kidney cancer depend on the stage of the disease and other factors, such as your overall health and age. Common treatment options for kidney cancer include:.

: Surgery

Surgery is often the first line of treatment for kidney cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tumor and any surrounding tissue that may contain cancer cells. In some cases, the entire kidney may need to be removed.

: Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment for kidney cancer.

: Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that works by boosting the body’s natural defenses against cancer. It may be used in combination with surgery or other treatments for kidney cancer.

Conclusion

Kidney cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms of kidney cancer is important for early detection and treatment.

If you have any of the symptoms of kidney cancer, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. With early detection and the right treatment, the outlook for people with kidney cancer is improving all the time.