Kidney cancer is one of the most aggressive types of cancer and can be difficult to treat. It is estimated that around 10,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with kidney cancer each year. While the exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown, it is thought to be linked to certain lifestyle and environmental factors. This article will discuss how aggressive kidney cancer can be and what treatments are available for it.
Risk Factors
There are certain risk factors that can increase a person’s chances of developing kidney cancer. These include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and a family history of the disease. People who are over the age of 65 are also at an increased risk of developing kidney cancer.
Symptoms
The symptoms of kidney cancer can vary, but the most common are back pain, blood in the urine, fatigue, and weight loss. Other symptoms may include a lump on the side or lower back, fever, and night sweats.
Diagnosis
If you have any of the symptoms of kidney cancer, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order tests such as a CT scan or MRI to look for any tumors in the kidneys. If a tumor is found, your doctor may recommend a biopsy to determine if it is cancerous.
Treatment
Treatment for kidney cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments. Surgery is the most common treatment and can involve removing the entire kidney, part of the kidney, or a tumor. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Outlook
The prognosis for kidney cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and how it is responding to treatment. Early detection and treatment can improve a person’s chances of recovery. It is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options and any questions or concerns you may have.