3 FAQs Regarding Kidney Cancer

Health & Medical Blog

According to the American Cancer Society, about 63,000 people in the United States will have been diagnosed with kidney cancer by the end of 2018. Of those diagnoses made, nearly 15,000 people will die from the disease. This type of cancer affects more men than women, and the average age of getting diagnosed is 64 years old.

If you have concerns about kidney cancer and would like to know more about it, here are the answers to three frequently asked questions.

1. What Are the Risk Factors Associated with Kidney Cancer?

For some who have been diagnosed with kidney cancer, the cause is never known. However, there are certain risk factors that can increase the chances of getting this type of cancer. Some of these risk factors include:

  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure
  • Family history of kidney cancer
  • Exposure to certain substances, such as cadmium and asbestos

It's important to note that just because someone has some or all of these risk factors doesn't mean they will get diagnosed with kidney cancer.

2. What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Cancer?

Some people who have kidney cancer will not have any early symptoms. However, if any of the following kidney cancer symptoms are present, it's important to seek medical attention right away:

  • Blood in the urine
  • A lump in the side or abdomen
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Long-lasting fever not caused by infection
  • Swelling in ankles or legs

If kidney cancer is not treated right away, it could spread to other parts of the body and cause other symptoms, such as shortness of breath and coughing up blood.

3. How Is Kidney Cancer Treated?

The earlier a diagnosis is made, the sooner treatment can begin, which will increase one's chances of survival. There are different treatment options available and it will largely depend upon the person's health and the stage of the disease.

Three of the most common treatment options include:

  • Local therapies - usually done during the earliest stages, this type of treatment involves treating the tumor with surgery, ablation, or radiation therapy
  • Systematic treatments - this type of treatment is used to treat cancer cells and involves chemotherapy and other drugs that get administered into the bloodstream
  • Palliative treatment - this type of treatment helps to ease the pain and symptoms associated with kidney cancer and is offered when the cancer cannot be removed

Anyone diagnose with kidney cancer will need to discuss their treatment options with their doctor to determine the best course of action to take.

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