This Kidney Health Month is a great opportunity to learn about
kidney cancer and how it can be prevented. Over 50,000 people are diagnosed with kidney cancer each year.
There are two types of kidney
cancer – renal cell and transitional cell cancer. The most common type is renal cell cancer. Sometimes, renal cell cancer can spread to other areas like the lungs or bones.
It is important to detect and treat kidney cancer before it spreads to other parts of the body. When it is located in the kidney alone, it is much easier to treat.
Risk Factors
Men are more likely than
women to develop kidney cancer. Additionally, black people are at a slightly higher risk of developing renal cell cancer. Studies have also shown that siblings of people with kidney cancer have a higher risk of developing kidney cancer themselves.
Signs and Symptoms
Kidney cancer can be hard to detect in the early stages because it often does not cause noticeable symptoms. In later stages, it can cause symptoms such as:
- Blood in urine
- Lump in the back
- Pain in the abdomen
- High blood pressure
- Anemia
These symptoms can also point to non-cancerous health problems. If you experience any of these symptoms, speak with your doctor to determine the cause.
Treatment
When caught early on, kidney cancer can be successfully treated and cured. Treatment usually involves
surgery to remove the cancerous tumor. Sometimes the full kidney is removed to reduce the risk of chronic kidney disease.
Because kidney disease is best treated when detected early on, it is a good idea to talk to your
doctor about your risk levels and decide how often you should be tested for kidney disease. Additionally, eating well and exercising can significantly improve your kidney health.