Kidney cancer: myths and facts

Kidney cancer is one of the topmost common cancers in India found in both men and women. Here are some myths and facts about kidney cancer.

Myth: Kidney cancer mainly affects youngsters.

Fact: Study shows that one-third of the total no. of cases of kidney cancer are young people. It is due to changing lifestyle and food habits.

Myth: Smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer.

Fact: True. Smoking doubles the risk of kidney cancer. Near about 30% of kidney cancers in men and about 25% in women are due to smoking.

Myth: Kidney cancer mainly occur in women.

Fact: No. Kidney cancer is more common in men as compared to women.

Myth: Blood in the urine is a sure indication of kidney cancer.

Fact: Blood in the urine is one of the symptoms of kidney cancer, but it can also be a sign of other urinary problems like urinary tract infection (UTI). But one should not neglect it and immediately contact a urologist in a nearby area.

Myth: Kidney cancers are not curable

Fact: With the available diagnostic modalities, kidney cancer can be picked up at an early stage, and kidney-sparing surgeries can be offered. This can help a patient avoid losing his kidney and have a near-normal life with regular follow-up.

Myth: Kidney cancer treatment always include the removal of the entire kidney.

Fact: No. With advancements in cancer treatments, there is no need to remove the entire. Robotic partial nephrectomy has become the f choice for most patients with kidney cancer or a benign kidney tumour. In this procedure, the kidney tumour is removed while leaving the rest of the kidney intact.

Myth: Kidney cancer is not hereditary.

Fact: 2-3% of cases of kidney cancers are having a family history of kidney cancer.

If you have any doubts about kidney cancer, contact Dr. Mangesh Patil. He is a consultant, Uro Oncologist & Robotic Surgeon specializing in Robotic Urooncological Surgeries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kidney Cancer – Myths and Facts

What are the early signs of kidney cancer?

The early signs may include blood in the urine, continued back discomfort, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and a lump in the abdomen. Therefore, it is important to note that it is not possible to be certain about the presence of cancer only by the presence of the mentioned signs, and a proper diagnosis is required.

Can kidney cancer be prevented?

Although it is not possible to prevent this cancer, certain measures can be taken to reduce the risk of getting this cancer, such as avoiding smoking, being at a proper weight, managing high blood pressure, being physically active, and avoiding harmful chemicals.

How is kidney cancer diagnosed?

The diagnosis is made by using imaging tests, analysis of the urine, and a biopsy.

What is robotic partial nephrectomy for treating kidney cancer?

Robotic partial nephrectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which only the cancerous cells are removed, preserving the functioning part of the kidney. This is a modern method of treating this cancer, preserving the functioning part of the kidney.

Is kidney cancer hereditary?

Although it is rare, this cancer can be hereditary, and 2 to 3 percent of this cancer is attributed to a person’s family history; therefore, it is important to inform your doctor about your family history in case you are at risk of getting this cancer.

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Dr. Mangesh Patil is a renowned Urologist, and is trained in Endourology and Robotic Surgery , with professional experience of more than 10 years .