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The Risk Factors of Kidney Cancer

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  • Written By: Parrish Healthcare
The Risk Factors of Kidney Cancer

What is Kidney Cancer?

Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that are approximately the size of your fist. There are a few types of kidney cancer, and all forms start in the kidneys — which can affect anyone at any age.

Read on to learn more about the most common risk factors and how you can make changes to reduce your risk.

Top Risk Factors in Developing Kidney Cancer

There are two types of risk factors when it comes to kidney cancer — controllable and uncontrollable.

Controllable Risk Factors

The following risk factors can be changed by making adjustments to your lifestyle and habits:

  • Smoking tobacco.
  • Being overweight/obese.
  • Having high blood pressure.
  • Poor eating habits, such as consuming processed foods, fatty foods, and sugar regularly.
  • Using certain medications such as diuretics and analgesic pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen.

Uncontrollable Risk Factors

  • Age - Kidney cancer is typically diagnosed in adults over 50.
  • Strong family history of renal cell cancer.
  • Genetics - Having certain inherent genes such as familial renal cancer or Cowden syndrome.
  • Gender - Men are more likely to develop kidney cancer than women.
  • Race - African Americans are more at risk of developing kidney cancer.
  • People with advanced kidney disease.
  • People who are on long-term dialysis.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Developing Kidney Cancer

While it’s true that some of the risk factors mentioned above can’t be changed, there are still some things you can do to reduce your risk. Here are some tips:

  • Quit smoking.
  • Keep an eye on your blood pressure numbers.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Eat a low-fat, low-sodium diet that consists of colorful fruits and vegetables.

Learn How the Parrish Cancer Center Can Help

If you are concerned that you may be at risk of developing kidney cancer, our caring oncologists at the Parrish Cancer Center are here to help. From kidney cancer testing, treatment, and prevention, contact us today at 321-529-6202 for more information.