Genitourinary Cancer: Kidney
What is kidney cancer?
The kidneys are located on either side of the backbone, protected by the lower rib cage. They filter blood and assist the body in eliminating excess water, salt, and waste products by producing urine.
The most common form of this disease is called renal cell carcinoma. Every 9 out of 10 cases that are diagnosed account for this form of cancer. There are five additional subtypes which include, clear cell, papillary, chromophobe, collecting duct, and unclassified. Nearly 80% of kidney cancer patients are diagnosed with clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Papillary renal cell carcinoma is the second most common type of this disease, accounting for approximately 10 to 15% of cases. The last two types, chromophobe and collecting duct carcinomas, are very rare. Additional types, while less common, include transitional cell carcinomas, Wilms tumors, and renal sarcomas.
How many people get kidney cancer?
The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 38,000 new cases of kidney cancer will be diagnosed this year alone. Nearly 12,500 will die as a result of this disease, and while the majority of people that are diagnosed are older, it can affect both adults and children.
According to the American Cancer Society, there is evidence that shows kidney cancer cases have been increasing by approximately 1.5% per year over the past several years. Physicians believe this trend may coincide with additional testing and detection through the use of abdominal CT scans. However, there has not been a subsequent increase in mortality rates.
What causes kidney cancer?
Physicians believe that many cases of kidney cancer are preventable. Smoking has been shown to increase a person’s risk of developing kidney cancer by 40%. Research has shown that chemicals in tobacco smoke get absorbed into the bloodstream by the lungs, and are then filtered through the kidneys. Many of those chemicals remain in the kidneys and are known to damage surrounding cells and DNA, possibly causing the cells to become cancerous.
The following are additional factors that may increase one’s risk of developing kidney cancer. Lifestyle and job-related risk factors include obesity and exposure to certain occupational chemicals. Physicians believe 20% of kidney cancer cases may be due to obesity. Studies have also suggested that exposure to chemicals such as asbestos, some herbicides, organic solvents, and benzene may also increase a person’s risk.
There are also genetic and hereditary risk factors that affect a person’s chance of developing cancer. Kidney cancer has been linked to von Hippel-Lindau disease, hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma, Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome, and various other benign kidney tumors. Other risk factors may include a history of kidney disease, certain medications, and high blood pressure. People who believe they may be at a higher risk should discuss concerns with their physicians.
Can kidney cancer be prevented?
Physicians believe many cases of renal cell carcinoma can be prevented. A large number of cases have been attributed to cigarette smoking. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, dietary modifications, and maintaining a healthy weight may lower an individual’s risk. Avoiding exposure to certain substances in the workplace (these substances are discussed in the previous section) can reduce a person’s risk of developing the disease.
How is kidney cancer found?
Kidney cancer usually does not cause any early signs or symptoms. However, possible warnings may include:
- blood in the urine
- a fever that is not associated with any type of illness
- unusual fatigue
- low back pain on one side, not associated with any type of injury
- a mass or lump in the stomach
- unintentional weight loss
- abnormal swelling of the ankles and legs
The majority of these symptoms are related to non-cancerous diseases but it is important to seek advise from a medical professional. A series of imaging tests can be performed if the physician suspects cancer. Computed tomography (CT or CAT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans have the ability to produce detailed images of the body. Laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and certain blood tests, are also able to detect abnormalities.
How is kidney cancer treated?
Surgery is the primary treatment for renal cell carcinoma and often times the prognosis is poor without this procedure. There are several surgeries that can be performed depending on the stage and type of the cancer. Treatments are different for each and every patient, it is best to discuss each option with a medical professional.