Understanding the causes and risk factors of renal cancer helps individuals take preventive measures and seek timely screenings. Key factors include:
- Tobacco Use: Smoking introduces carcinogens that damage kidney cells.
- Obesity: Excess weight alters hormones and promotes inflammation.
- Hypertension: Chronic high blood pressure increases kidney cancer risk.
- Genetic Predisposition: Family history or conditions like von Hippel-Lindau disease heighten susceptibility.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Long-term kidney dysfunction or dialysis raises risk.
- Environmental Exposures: Contact with chemicals like asbestos or cadmium may contribute.
- Gender & Age: Men and individuals over 50 are at higher risk.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes stresses kidneys and raises cancer risk.