World Kidney Cancer Day: Myths, Facts, and the Way Forward

7 Myths and Facts about this cancer

Here’s some of the common myths and facts about this cancer, including:  

Myth 1: Kidney cancer is rare

Fact: Renal cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in both men and women across the world. This cancer is also commonly known as a silent killer. However, this type of cancer is not as rare as it seems. This cancer develops easily in people who are at high risk or belong to high-risk groups. 

Myth 2: Kidney cancer mostly affects in young people

Fact: Studies suggest that the average age of diagnosing this type of cancer is 65. However, most people are diagnosed with this type of cancer in the age group between 55 and 74. These cancers are not common in people below the age of 45.

Myth 3: Smoking does not cause cancer in the kidneys!

Fact: This is a major myth, because smoking significantly increases the risk of developing cancer in kidneys as well. It is one of the major misconceptions about smoking: that it only causes lung cancer in people. The truth is smoking can also cause renal cancer!

Studies suggest that smoking can double the risk of this cancer, and it is believed to contribute to approximately 30% of renal cancer in men and approximately 30% in women. 

Myth 4: Kidney cancer is not curable

Fact: It is another myth about this cancer that it's not curable. Once the cancer is diagnosed in its early stages, it's considered curable. Early cancers are highly curable with effective treatments such as surgery. However, it's often true that this type of cancer is not curable in its advanced stages. It helps to increase the overall life expectancy of patients and improve the quality of their lives.

Myth 5: Kidney cancer can’t diagnosed in the early stages

Fact: With increasing health awareness and prevention strategies, people are entitled to undergo annual checkups. These cancers can often be picked up by regular checkups, including routine ultrasounds and regular urine tests. Early diagnosis often leads to early treatments and extends the life expectancy of the patients. This type of cancer can’t be diagnosed in the early stages is a big myth.

Myth 6: Kidney cancers are not hereditary  

Fact: Studies suggest that about 2-3% of renal cancers are hereditary. Patients with a family history of cancers in the kidney should get regular checkups and consult a physician when any changes happen in the body.

Myth 7: Women are at high risk of developing renal cancer

Fact: The statement, ‘women are at high risk of developing renal cancer, is another myth. In reality, this type of cancer can affect anyone irrespective of gender. Studies and research suggest that men are twice as likely to develop this type of cancer when compared to women.

Causes of Kidney cancer

The exact cause of this cancer is not clear and unknown. However, there are certain risk factors that might increase the risk of developing this disease. 

Including:

• Smoking: People who have smoking habits are at high risk of developing this cancer. In addition, the longer the person smokes, the higher the risk. 
• Obesity: Obesity or being overweight is considered as a risk factor for cancer in the kidneys. 
• High blood pressure: A high level of BP or Hypertension can cause cancer in kidneys. Studies suggest that an increased level of BP is often linked to this cancer. 
• Family history: People with a family history of renal cancer may have an increased risk of developing it in their lives. 
• Radiation therapy: People especially women who have been treated with radiation therapy for cancer of their reproductive organs may have slightly increased risk of developing this cancer. 
• Gene mutations: Gene mutations or changes can increase the risk of developing this disease.

Consult Today

The World Kidney Cancer Day observed on June 19th, focuses on raising awareness and prevention of this cancer. The theme of 2025' World Kidney Cancer Day is ‘Show Your Kidney Some Love,‘ which highlights the need for adopting healthy lifestyle changes and regular health checkups for the proactive health of kidneys. 

At Oncare, we offer premium-quality cancer treatments, including cancer surgeries at affordable price packages with experienced cancer specialist consultation. 

If you or any loved ones of yours are diagnosed with cancer, then visit Oncare Cancer Center and book an appointment with our cancer specialist today. Get an estimated cost of your cancer treatments.