Kidney cancer cases are expected to double by 2050. And the key drivers include preventable risk factors such as obesity, smoking, lack of exercise, diabetes, and hypertension. A new study by researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found a steep rise in kidney cancer cases. The findings of the study is published in European Urology.
Kidney cancer on the rise
The researchers found that the cases of kidney cancer will double worldwide over the next 25 years. About 435,000 new kidney cancer cases and 156,000 deaths were recorded globally in 2022. The researchers said that if the current trends continue, those numbers could potentially double by 2050.“Kidney cancer is a growing global health problem, and both clinicians and policymakers need to prepare for this steep rise. This review is a reference point for the field, summarizing what we know about kidney cancer incidence, survival, genetics, and risk factors,” senior author Alexander Kutikov, MD, FACS, Chair of the Department of Urology at Fox Chase Cancer Center, said in a statement.The researchers found survival disparities, with five-year survival rates varying from 40% to 75%, depending on geography and access to care. They also noted that about 5% to 8% of kidney cancers are hereditary, linked to mutations in specific genes. However, more than half of kidney cancer cases worldwide are caused by preventable factors such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, smoking, environmental exposures, and lack of physical exercise. The researchers emphasized that lifestyle changes such as weight control, blood pressure, blood sugar management, and smoking cessation can significantly lower the risk, and prevent cancer.
“Lifestyle changes like weight control, blood pressure and blood sugar management, and especially smoking cessation, can significantly lower risk. These are prevention strategies that can make a real difference,” Kutikov said.
What are the signs of kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer is most common in people between the ages of 65 and 74. Men are at increased risk of developing this cancer compared to women. This cancer is less common in children.Catching the signs and symptoms of kidney cancer early is crucial for improved treatment options and outcomes. Many people end up dismissing the warning signs of kidney cancer, which results in late diagnosis and limited treatment options, which negatively affect the outcomes. Here are five warning signs of kidney cancer that you should not ignore.
- blood in urine
- a lump or swelling in the back, under your ribs, or in your neck
- persistent pain between the ribs and the waist
- loss of appetite
- fatigue
Other symptoms include:
- weight loss
- a high temperature that does not go away
- always feeling unwell
- sweating a lot, including at night
- anemia
- high blood pressure
- high calcium
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical guidance. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
