Kidney Cancer: Tips for Preventing It

Kidneys play a vital role in filtering blood and removing waste from the body. But like any organ, they are vulnerable to diseases—including cancer. Kidney cancer, or renal cell carcinoma, begins when abnormal cells form tumors inside the kidney. Some tumors are benign, while others are cancerous and can spread if not detected early.

The good news? Kidney cancer is often treatable—especially when caught in its early stages. That’s why it’s important to know the symptoms, risk factors, and preventive steps that can protect your kidney health.

How Common Is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer is among the top 10 most common cancers in the U.S., with over 80,000 new cases diagnosed each year. It’s more frequently found in men, especially those over age 60, but it can affect anyone.

At-risk groups include:

• Older adults (especially those over 75)
• African Americans, American Indians, and Alaskan Natives
• People with family history or chronic kidney disease

Symptoms of Kidney Cancer

Many kidney tumors do not cause symptoms in early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Persistent pain in the back, ribs, or side
• Low back pain not linked to an injury
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite or fatigue
• Persistent low-grade fever
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)

If you experience any of these symptoms, speak with a healthcare provider promptly.

How Is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?

More than 50% of kidney tumors are found incidentally during unrelated imaging tests. To confirm a diagnosis, your doctor may recommend:

• Urinalysis and blood tests to check kidney function
• Cystoscopy to examine the bladder
• CT scan or MRI to assess tumor size and spread
• Biopsy of the tumor if necessary
• Bone scans or chest X-rays to rule out metastasis

If kidney cancer is confirmed, the stage and type will guide your treatment plan.

5 Ways to Help Prevent Kidney Cancer

While not all cases are preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk by making healthy lifestyle choices. Here are five proven prevention strategies:

1. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor. If you smoke, quitting can drastically lower your risk of kidney cancer and other illnesses.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity and high blood pressure both increase your risk. Stay active and follow a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins.

3. Avoid Exposure to Harmful Toxins

Minimize contact with chemicals such as asbestos, cadmium, and trichloroethylene—especially in workplaces or older buildings.

4. Protect Your Kidneys

Avoid overusing NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. Monitor and manage conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which can damage your kidneys over time.

5. Know Your Family History

If kidney cancer runs in your family, talk to your doctor about early screenings or genetic counseling.

Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer

If diagnosed with a kidney tumor, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Active Surveillance – Monitoring small or slow-growing tumors
• Ablation Therapy – Using heat or cold to destroy cancer cells
• Partial or Radical Nephrectomy – Surgical removal of part or all of the kidney
• Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy – Medications that attack cancer cells or boost your immune system

Each treatment plan is personalized based on tumor size, stage, and overall kidney function.

Post-Treatment and Ongoing Care

Follow-up care is essential. Even after successful treatment, kidney cancer has a high recurrence rate. Your provider will schedule regular imaging and lab tests to monitor for any new growths.

Living a healthy lifestyle—staying active, eating well, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol—can help prevent recurrence and improve outcomes.

Get Expert Kidney Cancer Care in the Bay Area

Early detection can save lives. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your kidney health, the team at BASS Medical Group is here to help. Our urologists and cancer specialists use advanced diagnostics and personalized care plans to support your recovery.

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