Source :NEWS18 NEWS
Last Updated:June 18, 2025, 15:20 IST
Kidney cancer is a serious condition where kidney cells grow abnormally and form a tumour, which can spread to other body parts if not treated in time
Many people do not realise they are suffering from a kidney problem until it reaches an advanced stage. (News18 Hindi)
The kidney is a vital organ in our body that helps filter blood, remove waste, regulate blood pressure, and balance the body’s pH levels. Therefore, it is important to take proper care of the kidneys and protect them from serious illnesses. In recent times, kidney-related diseases have been rising rapidly. Many people do not realise they are suffering from a kidney problem until it reaches an advanced stage.
To raise awareness about such issues, World Kidney Cancer Day is observed every year on the third Thursday of June. On this occasion, we spoke to medical experts to understand what causes kidney cancer and how it can be prevented.
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What Is Kidney Cancer?
According to Dr Anuja Porwal, Director and Nephrologist at Fortis Hospital, Noida, kidney cancer is a serious condition in which the kidney cells grow abnormally and form a tumour. If not treated in time, this tumour can spread to other parts of the body. Early signs are often unclear, which delays diagnosis. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, back pain, and unusual fatigue.
Dr Porwal emphasises that maintaining a healthy lifestyle and undergoing regular health check-ups can help in early detection and prevention. If diagnosed in the early stages, kidney cancer can often be treated successfully with surgery. In advanced cases, treatment may involve medication or immunotherapy.
Cases On The Rise
Dr Ankit Goyal, Head of the Urology Department at Mash Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi, notes a sharp rise in kidney cancer cases in recent years. Previously, they would see 1–2 cases a month, but that number has now increased to 3–4. One reason for this is the increased use of ultrasound and CT scans, even for minor health concerns, which helps detect hidden tumours early.
Urban lifestyle factors like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure are also contributing to the increase in cases. Dr Goyal says that every month, around 10–20 patients are suspected of having kidney lumps in the OPD, with 3–4 eventually confirmed as cancer cases. Most patients are aged between 40 and 70, and men are more affected than women. The major concern, he adds, is that many patients still visit the doctor in the second or third stage of the disease, which makes treatment more complicated.
Early Symptoms
Experts say kidney cancer often does not show clear symptoms at the beginning. People tend to ignore signs like unexplained fatigue, sudden weight loss, mild pain on one side of the waist, or even blood in the urine. If there is blood in the urine, even once, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
In regions like Delhi and Noida, the risk of kidney cancer is increasing due to smoking, excessive consumption of fried food, and long-term use of painkillers. Those who work in industries with chemical or metal exposure may also be at higher risk.
To prevent this disease, doctors recommend regular urine tests, ultrasounds, and CT scans. In most cases, surgery is needed to remove part or all of the affected kidney. Some cases may also require medication or immunotherapy.
- First Published:
June 18, 2025, 15:20 IST
SOURCE : NEWS 18
