World Kidney Cancer Day 2024 is a global event observed every year on June 20 to raise awareness about kidney cancer and help people suffering from this disease. So, to celebrate World Kidney Cancer Day 20224, we should know about the effects of alcohol on the development of kidney cancer or kidney disease.
The kidneys are powerful organs responsible for filtering waste from your blood, maintaining fluid balance and making hormones. While an occasional drink probably won't cause immediate harm, frequent alcohol consumption can take a toll on your kidneys and potentially affect cancer risk. The burden of kidney disease is rising in India, with an estimated 17 percent of adults suffering from chronic kidney disease [National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)]This high prevalence highlights the importance of adopting healthy habits, including responsible alcohol consumption, to protect kidney health.
Effects on kidney function
- Dehydration: Alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing urination and leading to dehydration. Dehydration puts pressure on the kidneys, making it harder to filter waste products effectively.
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD): Long-term drinking can damage the delicate filtering units inside the kidneys. This damage can progress over time, increasing the risk of CKD, a condition in which the kidneys gradually stop working.
- High blood pressure: Alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for kidney damage and CKD.
Alcohol and Kidney Cancer: A Complicated Relationship
Although alcohol consumption may play a role in the development of several types of cancer, research does not establish a direct link between alcohol and kidney cancer. Some older studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption (about 1 drink per day) may slightly reduce the risk of developing kidney cancer. However, these findings have not been consistently replicated in newer research.
Although a direct link has not been proven, other factors may play a role:
- Indirect effects: Although alcohol doesn't directly cause kidney cancer, excessive drinking can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to a variety of cancers, including cancers outside the kidney.
- Confounding factors: Studies often have difficulty taking into account all the lifestyle factors that may affect both alcohol intake and cancer risk (eg, smoking, diet).
Despite the inconclusive link with kidney cancer, the possibility of excessive alcohol consumption causing kidney damage cannot be ruled out. Moderation is the key. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, moderate drinking means one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men (one drink is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of liquor).
Here are some tips to keep your kidneys functioning better:
Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a risk factor for kidney disease.
stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Limit your intake of processed foods: Processed foods are often high in sodium, which can put stress on the kidneys.
Keep blood pressure under control: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for CKD.
Moderate alcohol consumption: Discuss safe alcohol consumption with your doctor.
Routine check-ups: Have regular tests to monitor your kidney function, especially if you have risk factors for CKD.
Also read: World Kidney Cancer Day 2024: Some lifestyle mistakes that can harm your kidneys