Who Is at Risk? Common Kidney Cancer Risk Factors

Older man sitting on bed holding kidney area in pain due to kidney cancer in Hartford, CT Kidney cancer, or renal cancer, is more common than you may think. While it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of kidney cancer, researchers have identified risk factors that could increase your likelihood of getting the disease. Understanding these risks can help with early detection and informed lifestyle choices.

At Greater Hartford Urology Group, our board-certified urologists specialize in diagnosing and treating kidney cancer, offering advanced care options, including robotic-assisted surgery with the DaVinci Robotic System. With over 40 years of experience serving Hartford County and affiliations with top hospitals like St. Francis and UConn Medical Center, our team is committed to providing expert, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s needs.

Age and Gender

Kidney cancer is more prevalent in adults over the age of 50, with the average diagnosis occurring in the early 60s. Additionally, men are about twice as likely as women to develop kidney cancer.

Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for many cancers, and kidney cancer is no exception. Smokers are significantly more likely to develop renal cell carcinoma, the most common type of kidney cancer, than non-smokers. The risk increases with the more cigarettes smoked and how long someone has been smoking.

Obesity and Poor Diet

Excess body weight has been strongly connected to kidney cancer. Obesity can alter certain hormones and promote inflammation, both of which may contribute to tumor growth. Eating too much processed foods may also increase risk over time.

High Blood Pressure

Chronic high blood pressure, or hypertension, has been associated with kidney cancer. It’s unclear whether the condition or the medications used to treat it are responsible, but maintaining healthy blood pressure is important for kidney health.

Family History and Genetics

Having a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with kidney cancer can increase your own risk. Certain genetic conditions, including von Hippel-Lindau disease and hereditary papillary renal carcinoma, are linked to a higher incidence of kidney cancer.

Workplace Exposure to Chemicals

Long-term exposure to chemicals like asbestos, cadmium, herbicides, and solvents may also raise the risk. These exposures are more likely in industrial or manufacturing jobs.

Take Charge of Your Kidney Health in Hartford, CT, Today

If you have any of the risk factors for kidney cancer or concerns about your urinary health, the expert team at Greater Hartford Urology Group is here to help. With cutting-edge technology and decades of experience, we provide personalized care you can trust. Call us at 860-522-2251 to schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward peace of mind.

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