Kidney cancer is a disease with a growing global incidence, estimated at 400,000 new cases annually and a mortality rate nearing 175,000 deaths per year. According to the GLOBOCAN 2020 report, kidney cancer accounts for 1.3% of total cancer cases in India. About 90% of kidney cancer cases are called renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The disease proves difficult to catch early because symptoms rarely show up in initial stages.
Men face twice the risk of developing this cancer compared to women. Most patients receive their diagnosis around age 64. The disease becomes more concerning because renal cell carcinoma accounts for 90% of all cases.
Understanding Kidney Health
Kidneys are bean-shaped organs behind lower ribs that work as your body’s sophisticated filtration system. A million tiny filters called nephrons exist in each kidney and filters about 180 liters of blood every day. These organs keep the perfect balance of water, minerals, and other substances in your blood. When cells in the kidneys grow out of control, forming tumors, kidney cancer occurs.
Basic kidney functions
Kidneys do much more than remove waste. They make hormones that regulate blood pressure, support bone health, and control red blood cell production. They also activate vitamin D that needed for strong bones and proper muscle function.
Risk factors for kidney cancer
You can detect kidney cancer early by knowing its risk factors. Here are the main ones:
- Smoking (increases risk by 39%)
- Obesity and excess body weight
- High blood pressure
- Family history (especially if a sibling has kidney cancer)
- Exposure to workplace chemicals like cadmium and trichloroethylene
Men have twice the risk compared to women. African Americans, American Indians, and Alaskan Natives show higher occurrence rates.
Prevention tips
You can substantially lower your kidney cancer risk by taking proactive steps. Your blood pressure should stay healthy, and if you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar levels in check. You should also avoid using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for long periods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps protect your kidneys when combined with regular physical activity.
Recognizing Kidney Cancer Symptoms
Kidney cancer often shows no early signs until the tumor grow by a lot. Recognizing these warning signs is vital for detecting it early.
Physical signs
Most Tumors are asymptomatic-without any symptoms. Blood in urine that looks rusty or deep red is may be present sometimes. Some patients develop a visible lump or mass in their lower back or side, though this is nowhere near as common.
Internal changes
The body goes through several changes as the disease progresses. Many patients lose their appetite and drop weight without explanation. This can lead to anemia that causes ongoing fatigue and makes them feel unwell.
Other symptoms
Many more warning signs include:
- Fever that persists without any infection
- Swollen ankles and legs
- Night sweats and unusual tiredness
The Diagnosis Journey
Doctor starts evaluating patients if symptoms point to kidney cancer. The diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history review and physical exam.
First steps
Your doctor needs to understand your medical history, risk factors and current symptoms. The physical exam checks for fever and blood pressure. The doctor also examines your abdomen and back to find unusual masses or tender areas.
Medical tests explained
Blood tests show your kidney function and overall health. These tests detect anemia, which many kidney cancer patients have. A complete blood count measures red blood cell levels and shows how well your liver works.
Blood in urine shows up in about half of kidney cancer cases. But this sign doesn’t prove cancer by itself since it could mean other issues like kidney stones.
Advanced imaging gives clear views of your kidneys:
- CT scans create three-dimensional images with X-rays and contrast dye
- MRI scans use magnetic fields to see organs in detail
- Ultrasound helps doctors tell solid tumors from fluid-filled cysts
Delhi’s best kidney cancer treatment center, Epitome Hospital has modern diagnostic equipment and expert consultants. Their oncology and urology team uses advanced imaging technology to provide all diagnostic services in one place.
Advanced Diagnosis Methods
Today’s diagnostic technologies give us a clear picture of kidney cancer’s features and spread. Medical teams rely on three advanced imaging methods to make an accurate diagnosis.
Imaging techniques
CT scans are the go-to diagnostic tool that creates detailed cross-sectional images with 94% sensitivity to detect renal masses. These scans need contrast dye injection to get the best view. MRI is a great alternative that works well for patients who can’t have CT contrast. It delivers 87.5% sensitivity and 89% specificity in diagnosis. Ultrasound helps doctors determine if masses are solid tumors or fluid-filled cysts, though it’s nowhere near as accurate as CT or MRI.
Biopsy process
Doctors do a kidney biopsy in specific cases, especially when the imaging results aren’t clear enough to make surgery decisions. The procedure uses ultrasound or CT guidance to place a thin needle into the kidney tissue. A typical biopsy takes about an hour, and patients need 4-6 hours of monitoring afterward.
Staging and grading
The TNM staging system looks at everything in the diagnosis: tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis. Cancer stages range from I to IV. The Fuhrman grading system uses grades 1 to 4 to measure how cancer cells differ from normal kidney cells. Grade 4 points to a more aggressive form.
Treatment Options in Delhi
Choosing the right healthcare facility is a vital step in your kidney cancer treatment. You need a hospital that has advanced technology and experienced medical professionals.
Choosing the right hospital
Epitome Hospital Delhi excels with its multidisciplinary approach to kidney cancer treatment. The hospital’s team has urologic oncologists, radiation specialists, and surgical experts who collaborate to create individual-specific treatment plans.
The hospital provides treatment options based on your condition:
- Minimally invasive surgery for precise tumor removal
- Targeted therapy using latest-generation medications
- Advanced Immunotherapy cancer drugs Radiotherapy therapy with minimal side effects
The hospital’s high success rate in kidney cancer treatment comes from their complete care model. Their modern diagnostic center has MRI machines and CT scanners that ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Patients can get specialized care through a simple appointment process at Epitome Hospitals. Patient care coordinators help with insurance procedures and treatment schedules. The facility follows international standards of cleanliness and infection control to create a safe environment for immunocompromised patients. Their 24/7 emergency services and intensive care units provide extra safety during the treatment process.
Conclusion
Treatment outcomes improve by a lot when patients understand kidney cancer symptoms and get medical help at the right time. Symptoms usually show up in later stages, which make detection hard. People with risk factors like smoking, obesity, or family history should get regular health check-ups.
Best kidney cancer treatment Epitome Hospital in Delhi follows stringent infection control protocols and provides complete kidney cancer care with advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options in one place.
Your experience with kidney cancer treatment begins by spotting warning signs and choosing the right healthcare provider. Book your appointment at Epitome Hospitals today to start your path to healthier kidneys and a brighter future. Note that modern medical advances and expert care make successful treatment possible, especially with early detection, even though kidney cancer can be challenging.
FAQs
Q1. Can kidney cancer be cured?
The curability of kidney cancer largely depends on its stage at diagnosis. If detected early and confined to the kidney, it can often be cured with surgery. Even in advanced stages, various treatments like targeted therapy and immunotherapy can significantly extend life and improve quality of life.
Q2. What treatment options are available for kidney cancer?
Treatment options for kidney cancer vary depending on the stage and individual patient factors. They may include surgery (such as nephrectomy or partial nephrectomy), targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and in some cases, radiation therapy.
Q3. What is the role of immunotherapy in kidney cancer treatment?
Immunotherapy works by stimulating the body’s immune system to target and attack cancer cells. It’s particularly effective for advanced kidney cancer and can help extend survival and improve quality of life.
Q4. How kidney cancer is usually diagnosed?
Kidney cancer is typically diagnosed through imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs. Your doctor may also order a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Blood and urine tests help check for any abnormal markers. Early detection is key, so regular check-ups are important.
Q5. Are there any physical symptoms of kidney cancer?
Early-stage kidney cancer may not show obvious symptoms. As it progresses, you might notice blood in your urine, back pain, or unexplained weight loss. Swelling in your ankles or a lump in the abdomen can also be signs. If you experience these, it’s important to see a doctor.
