Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a serious health problem that affects thousands of people worldwide. World Kidney Cancer Day is observed every year on the second Thursday of June to raise awareness about the disease, its causes, symptoms, and available treatments. In 2024, World Kidney Cancer Day will be observed on June 20. It is an important reminder to educate yourself about kidney cancer, its symptoms, and the steps you can take to help people with the disease and reduce your risk. Here is all you need to know about the deadly disease called kidney cancer.
Causes of kidney cancer
Kidney cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the kidneys begin to grow uncontrollably. Although the exact cause of kidney cancer is not always clear, several risk factors increase the chance of developing the disease. These include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, certain genetic conditions, and long-term dialysis treatment.
Symptoms of kidney cancer
In its early stages, kidney cancer does not cause any significant symptoms. However, as the disease progresses, common symptoms may include blood in the urine (hematuria), persistent pain in the back or side, a lump or mass in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and intermittent fever.
Diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer
Early detection of kidney cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. If kidney cancer is suspected based on symptoms or routine checkups, diagnostic tests such as imaging scans (such as CT scan or MRI) and biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment options for kidney cancer depend on factors such as the stage and extent of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatments include surgery (partial or complete nephrectomy) to remove the tumor, targeted therapy using drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth, immunotherapy to increase the body's immune response against cancer cells, and in some cases, radiation therapy.
Kidney Cancer Prevention and Awareness
Although not all cases of kidney cancer can be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, controlling high blood pressure, and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals. Regular health checkups and screenings are also important, especially for individuals with a family history of kidney cancer or other risk factors.
By raising awareness and promoting early detection and treatment, we can strive to achieve better outcomes for people battling kidney cancer around the world. On June 13, let us come together to spread awareness and support efforts to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney cancer globally.
Also read: World Sickle Cell Day 2024: Types, causes, symptoms and treatment of this inherited blood disorder