The risk of kidney cancer lies in the unfortunate pattern where the first warning signs appear in the later 3rd to 4th stage, when a favorable prognosis becomes unlikely. This reality was emphasized by Nina Zubova, a surgeon at the Hemotest Laboratory, in a discussion with socialbites.ca about prevention and the key research steps needed to catch the disease early.
According to the expert, kidney cancer ranks 14th in incidence among malignant tumors in Russia and shows a higher prevalence in men than in women.
“The stealthy nature of this cancer is that it often remains silent in the early stages, at which point doctors usually have the best chance to influence outcomes positively. It also tends to metastasize aggressively. The lungs, bones, lymph nodes, brain, and liver are common sites for new tumor foci. At the moment of diagnosis, roughly one in three patients already has distant metastases,” explained Nina Zubova.
The doctor noted that patients frequently misinterpret the early alarm bells as general malaise. Mild fever, back discomfort, and fatigue are often attributed to infections, stress, or overwork. Anxiety grows louder when blood appears in the urine, back pain intensifies, fatigue becomes chronic, and weight loss occurs. As metastases spread, additional symptoms emerge, including shortness of breath and coughing up blood with lung involvement, along with headaches and body pains.
“The primary and most effective treatment for this cancer is surgical intervention. If the tumor is detected early and is small, kidney-sparing surgery may be performed to remove the tumor while preserving kidney function. In other cases, a nephrectomy, which removes the entire kidney, is necessary. Nevertheless, even after such procedures, cancer cells can recur and metastasize, worsening the patient’s condition. This is why ongoing oncologist follow-up after surgery is essential,” cautioned the surgeon. (Citation: Hemotest Laboratory)
According to the specialist, the likelihood of developing kidney cancer is closely linked to lifestyle choices. Major risk factors include smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure. The cancer is also more common in individuals who have undergone long-term hemodialysis and, in some cases, in women after uterus removal. Therefore, the best form of prevention is adopting a healthy lifestyle: quitting smoking, engaging in regular physical activity, and following a balanced diet.
“People with a hereditary predisposition to cancer should consider regular testing to detect malignant tumors early. For renal cell carcinoma screening, abdominal and retroperitoneal ultrasound is commonly recommended. Bolus contrast-enhanced computed tomography is used as the diagnostic standard, providing clear insight into the tumor’s location, size, and number, while also assessing metastasis sites and excluding involvement of nearby organs,” noted the Hemotest Laboratory specialist.
In addition, urine cytology helps detect tumor cells in the urinary tract, while a comprehensive biochemical blood test supports a broader health assessment.
The surgeon reminded readers that a definitive diagnosis can only be made by a doctor following a thorough examination, but individuals can monitor their well-being through prevention, regular screenings, and ongoing observation of bodily changes.
Additionally, a cautionary note is included regarding dental health practices and heart health—recent discussions point to dental issues as potential risk indicators for cardiac problems, underscoring the interconnected nature of overall health. (Citation: Hemotest Laboratory)