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Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) and refraining from smoking are two of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of kidney cancer, experts emphasized on World Kidney Cancer Day, observed annually on June 20 to raise awareness about this disease.
According to medical professionals, key risk factors for kidney cancer include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney cancer, and exposure to certain industrial toxins.
“Being aware of these risk factors can empower individuals to make informed choices about their health and potentially reduce their risk of developing kidney cancer,” said Dr. C.N. Patil, Head of the Department and Lead Consultant in Medical Oncology & Haemato-Oncology at Aster International Institute of Oncology, speaking to IANS.
Data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) indicates that kidney cancer ranks among the top 10 cancers in India, accounting for about 2 to 3 percent of all cancer cases.
“Kidney cancer constitutes about 2 to 3 percent of all cancers in our country, with around 15,000 new cases diagnosed annually. The incidence is notably higher in men than in women, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 2:1,” said Dr. Raghunath S.K., Senior Consultant and Director of Uro-oncology and Robotic Surgery at HCG Cancer Centre in Bengaluru.
Early-stage kidney cancer often presents no symptoms, making vigilance crucial. Experts recommend being alert for warning signs such as blood in urine, persistent back or flank pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Lifestyle changes play a crucial role in preventing kidney cancer, the experts stressed.
“Regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and staying hydrated are essential practices for overall kidney health,” said Dr. P.N. Gupta, Director and Head of the Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplant at Paras Health in Gurugram.
“Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, coupled with regular physical activity, can significantly lower cancer risk. Additionally, avoiding tobacco in all forms is imperative, as smoking is a major risk factor for many types of cancer, including kidney cancer,” Dr. Gupta added.
Experts also noted that advancements in treatment have considerably improved the outlook for kidney cancer patients. The primary approach remains surgery, which may involve removing the entire kidney or just the cancerous portion. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy have further improved survival rates and quality of life for patients.
This World Kidney Cancer Day, the message is clear: by making informed lifestyle choices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing kidney cancer and contribute to their overall health and well-being.
