Kidney Cancer
Obesity is a known risk factor for kidney cancer, particularly renal cell carcinoma. The reasons behind this association are not yet fully understood, but it is believed that the metabolic changes and chronic inflammation associated with obesity may play a role. Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, refers to the development of cancerous cells in the kidneys. The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Kidney cancer typically originates in the lining of small tubes in the kidney and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Here are some key points about kidney cancer:
Risk Factors: Several factors can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer. These include advanced age, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure (hypertension), certain inherited genetic conditions (such as Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome or hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma), long-term dialysis treatment, family history of kidney cancer, and exposure to certain chemicals or substances in the workplace (such as asbestos, cadmium, or certain herbicides).
Symptoms: In the early stages, kidney cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms. As the tumour grows larger or spreads, common symptoms can include blood in the urine (haematuria), persistent back pain just below the ribs, a mass or lump in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, and fever that comes and goes.
Diagnosis: If kidney cancer is suspected, further diagnostic tests will be conducted. These may include imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to visualize the kidneys and detect any abnormalities. A biopsy may also be performed to obtain a sample of kidney tissue for examination and confirmation of cancerous cells.
Staging: Kidney cancer is staged based on the size of the tumour, its extent of spread within the kidney, involvement of nearby lymph nodes, and presence of distant metastasis. Staging helps determine the appropriate treatment approach and prognosis. Stages range from I (confined to the kidney) to IV (spread to distant organs or lymph nodes).
Treatment: Treatment options for kidney cancer depend on the stage, grade, and individual factors. The primary treatment for localized kidney cancer is surgery to remove part of or the entire affected kidney (nephrectomy). Other treatments may include targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and in some cases, systemic chemotherapy. The choice of treatment is made by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.
Prevention: While the exact cause of kidney cancer is often unknown, certain lifestyle choices can lower the risk. These include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood pressure, staying physically active, and reducing exposure to harmful substances in the workplace.