A recent, though controversial study stated that around two-thirds of cancer cases aren’t caused by environmental factors or genetics. Rather, they’re caused by “bad luck” or chance. Even if true, that leaves a lot of cancer diagnoses that could be prevented or prepared for through better living.
Though you may not be able to make yourself completely immune to cancer, you can take actions to greatly reduce your chances of developing it, and kidney cancer is no exception.
Every year, approximately 73,820 people are diagnosed with kidney cancer. Though it’s rarely found in people under 45, a younger person could still be increasing their chances of one day having it.
It’s important to understand what puts you at risk of devolving this terrible disease so that you can avoid it.
Protecting Against Kidney Cancer
While most people correlate smoking with lung cancer, it can also double your chances of developing kidney cancer. In men, 30% of kidney cancer is believed to be caused by smoking. Men are also 2-3 times more likely to develop kidney cancer than women.
Another major factor is your general diet and exercise routine. Being obese is hard on your kidneys. Unhealthy food is hard on your kidneys. High blood pressure (which is typically found in those who are obsess) is hard on your kidneys. In other words, if you want to lower your risk of kidney disease and kidney cancer, make sure you’re exercising and eating healthy.
Certain medications can increase your chance as well. When taking any sort of medication, you should always make sure you understand the possible risks and speak with a medical professional.
Other kidney conditions such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure can increase your chances of cancer as well. If your kidneys have failed, you’ll need dialysis, which can develop cancerous cysts in your kidneys.
What to Do About Kidney Cancer
Many kidney conditions, including kidney cancer, don’t immediately show symptoms until they reach dangerous stages. It’s important that you’re checked regularly for anomalies. This is done with a simple blood and urine exam.
While a nephrologist can check for kidney issues, provide general lifestyle guidance, and possibly perform dialysis, they don’t offer surgery and other procedures often needed for kidney cancer. For that, you’ll need a urologist.
For supportive, trustworthy urologists in Springfield or Dayton, Ohio, contact Urology Specialists of Ohio today!