Early Symptoms of Kidney Cancer: Warning Signs, Risk Factors & Screening at NU Hospitals Bangalore

Kidney cancer is silent until later stages. Knowing the early signs and being aware of when to seek help is important.

Our experts always emphasise early diagnosis, detection and treatment. This helps you have a better treatment outcome, preserving kidney function and a healthier life.

Read on as we discuss the early symptoms to look for, the warning signs, risk factors and how we help with kidney cancer screening at NU Hospitals.

What Is Kidney Cancer, and Why Does Early Detection Matter?

Let us understand what kidney cancer actually means. When there is an abnormal growth of cells inside the kidneys and they are not controllable, it results in kidney cancer (tumour growth).

When detected in early stages, the tumour can be removed through surgery. 

Did you know that kidney cancer can even be cured in the early stages?

Why Is Early Diagnosis Critical for Kidney Cancer?

Early detection and diagnosis can aid with:

• Cancer cure

• Reducing the spread

• Reduced the risk of recurrence

• Better treatment opportunity

• Better survival

• Faster recovery

Ever wondered about the occurrence of kidney cancer in India? It accounts for 2-3% of adult cancers.

You will see better outcomes when diagnosed sooner. Early detection can significantly improve your recovery.

What Are the Early Warning Signs of Kidney Cancer?

We all understand cancer is difficult and overwhelming. It can be tricky and confusing to spot the signs early. But here are a few common early signs you can look out for:

 

How Can Blood in Urine Indicate Kidney Cancer?

Blood in urine is one of the common symptoms of kidney and urinary system-related diseases. It is the most common early sign of kidney cancer as well.

When there is tumour growth, it might cause:

• Invade the urinary tract and can cause blood in urine

• Invade the small blood vessels in the kidney leading to secondary hypertension 

• The blood clots can block the urinary passage (ureter) leading to pain

• Spread to adjacent organs like lungs or liver causing cough or loss of weight  

When Does Flank or Back Pain Signal a Problem?

You might experience dull or persistent pain, but when is it a problem?

• When it does not improve with pain management medication and rest

• Pain only in one side of the body

• If you experience pain while urinating

• Pain along with swelling

Are Weight Loss and Fatigue Common Early Symptoms?

Sudden, unexpected weight loss and constant fatigue are associated with kidney cancer as well as other diseases. They are not the only signs to look for. 

But when combined with other symptoms, they might indicate kidney cancer.

Can Fever or Night Sweats Be Signs of Kidney Cancer?

Tumour releases substances in the blood stream which can cause low-grade fever and night sweats. This is seen in the advanced stages, but if you have constant symptoms, you should check immediately.

Who Is at Risk of Kidney Cancer in Bangalore?

Learning about the risk factors can help you be cautious. Screening for kidney cancer becomes easier with the right information.

What Are the Major Risk Factors, Including Lifestyle and Genetics?

The major risk factors are:

• Your age

If you are aged between 50 and 70 years

• Family history

You are more likely to acquire kidney cancer if your family has a history of urological cancers.

• Obesity

Obesity puts one at major risk of acquiring cancer.

• Poor diet

• High blood pressure

• Other kidney diseases

How Does Smoking Affect Kidney Cancer Risk?

Smoking cigarettes increases your kidney cancer risk by 20-30% when compared to a non-smoker.

The toxin (nicotine) affects your overall health and your kidney cells in the long run.

Tip: We advise you to quit smoking to reduce your risks significantly

Are Certain Regions or Age Groups More Vulnerable?

Yes, if you are over 50 years of age, you are prone to acquiring kidney cancer.

Due to certain lifestyle factors, residents of urban areas are more likely to be diagnosed with kidney cancer.

Did you know men are more likely to develop kidney cancer than women? And the male-female ratio is 2:1?

How Does NU Hospitals Bangalore Screen for Kidney Cancer?

Our experts suggest a few tests to confirm the diagnosis after studying your medical record and physical examination.

• Blood tests

To analyse kidney function, cancer markers and other underlying diseases

• Urine tests

To understand kidney functions 

• Imaging tests

• Ultrasound

To observe the tumour growth, size and structural problems of the kidneys.

• Contrast CT Scan

To get a detailed image of the kidney and neighbouring organs, and the extent of cancer spread.

• MRI

To get further detailed information in complex and advanced cases

• Biopsy (rarely required)

A sample tissue of the kidney is removed to test and confirm the exact type of cancer. This is needed only if you are unfit for any surgical intervention and alternative treatment is contemplated. If there is doubt, if the lesion is primary in the kidney or spread to the kidney from other organs.

When Should Bangalore Patients Get Screened?

If you are a Bangalorean, you should get screened for kidney cancer at NU Hospitals if:

• Are older than 50 years

• Have a family history of any urological cancers (kidney, bladder, adrenal, ureteral, urethral, penile, testicular cancers)

• Experiencing any symptoms for a  longer period (pain, swelling, blood in urine, fatigue, etc.)

• Addicted to smoking and drinking alcohol

• You are obese, have high BP, are diabetic or are diagnosed with other kidney diseases.

Why Timely Screening Improves Treatment Success

With early screening, we can detect tumours which are smaller than 4 cm, which have an excellent prognosis.

Getting regular and timely screenings helps with:

• Early detection of cancer before the cancer spreads

• Minimal invasion and better surgical options

• Lesser need for chemotherapy or radiation

• Faster recovery

• Quicker bounce to regular life

What Are the Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer?

Based on the cancer growth and stage, there are multiple options for kidney cancer treatment.

1. Surgery

Nephrectomy (partial/radical) surgery is used to remove a part or the whole kidney, which is affected by cancer. This is the gold standard for treating kidney cancers.

Nephrectomy surgeries are performed with minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy or robot-assisted surgeries. Keeping patients’ comfort as a priority, we recommend either laparoscopic or robotic surgery.

2. Ablations therapy

This technique is used to freeze or burn cancer cells (called Cryo ablation)

3. Targeted therapy

Used in early stages to down stage cancer and make it feasible for surgery.

4. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps in metastatic diseases and advanced cancers.

How Does NU Hospitals Support Patients Through Treatment?

For every patient, we provide:

• Tailored treatment options for every patient

• Counselling for both patients and caregivers

• Diet and nutrition guidance

• Regular checkups and consultations

• A holistic approach not only treats the disease but also makes you a better and healthier version of yourself.