For years, kidney cancer has been spreading globally, with urban populations being the most affected. Kidney cancer can attack vital parts of the kidneys, leading to organ failure. Major factors linked to kidney cancer include lifestyle changes and increased environmental pollutants. This disease can profoundly impact a person’s life and become a heavy burden on their family.

In India, awareness about kidney cancer remains relatively low, leading to delayed detection and, in many cases, diagnosis at advanced stages. Many patients face complications and reduced treatment options due to late diagnosis. In rural areas where medical facilities are scarce, timely treatment is often unavailable, making this disease even more deadly. However, many of the top hospitals in India now offer cancer immunotherapy as an effective treatment, helping reduce symptoms and allowing patients to live fulfilling lives.

The rising incidence of kidney cancer has increased the demand for improved healthcare infrastructure, awareness campaigns, early detection, and access to timely treatment. Immunotherapy has become one of the easiest and most promising approaches to fight cancer cells. At the same time, numerous governmental and non-governmental organizations are working to develop other effective treatment options to benefit all patients.

Understanding the symptoms and causes of kidney cancer is crucial to managing and preventing its progression. Although it’s more common in adults and often has no clearly defined cause, several risk factors are known. Awareness of these factors helps promote early detection and prevention. Below are some common causes:

Causes:

  • Smoking: Tobacco use is a major risk factor. Chemicals in cigarettes enter the bloodstream and affect the kidneys, increasing the cancer risk.

  • Obesity: Excess body weight can lead to hormonal changes that may promote the development of kidney cancer.

  • High blood pressure: Also known as hypertension, it has been associated with increased kidney cancer risk, although the exact link is unclear.

  • Family history: A family history of kidney cancer may indicate a genetic predisposition.

  • Exposure to harmful substances: Chemicals like asbestos, cadmium, and some herbicides have been linked to higher kidney cancer risk.

  • Chronic kidney disease: Long-term kidney disease, especially in dialysis patients, raises the risk of kidney cancer.

  • Genetic conditions: Certain inherited disorders, such as Von Hippel-Lindau disease, increase susceptibility to kidney cancer.

When abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the kidneys and form a tumor, this leads to kidney cancer. In its early stages, symptoms may not be noticeable, which is why it’s often diagnosed late. However, as the cancer develops, signs may appear. It’s important to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical advice if anything seems unusual, even if symptoms may be related to other health issues. Early medical evaluation is essential to rule out cancer.

Immunotherapy for kidney cancer in Delhi’s top hospitals can help ease the symptoms. Common symptoms include:

Symptoms:

  • Blood in urine (hematuria): One of the most common signs. Urine may appear pink, red, or cola-colored, and the presence of blood may come and go.

  • Lower back pain: Persistent pain in the lower back or sides, just below the ribs, may indicate kidney cancer. The pain is often dull but can be sharp.

  • Abdominal mass or lump: A noticeable lump or mass in the side or abdomen may be felt in some cases.

  • Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying, especially significantly, could signal kidney cancer.

  • Fatigue: Constant tiredness or weakness, even after rest, is a possible symptom.

  • Fever: Ongoing fever without infection may be linked to kidney cancer, often with night sweats.

  • Loss of appetite: A sudden drop in appetite or feeling full quickly may relate to the disease.

  • High blood pressure: Kidney cancer may cause difficult-to-control hypertension.

  • Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells may result in dizziness, shortness of breath, or pale skin.

Types: The kidneys, bean-shaped organs on either side of the spine, filter blood and eliminate waste. Cancer may disrupt these functions and spread to other body parts if not detected early. Understanding the types of kidney cancer is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. Each type has distinct traits and treatment options:

  • Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): The most common type, accounting for ~90% of cases. It starts in the tiny tubes in the kidney. RCC has subtypes like clear cell, papillary, and chromophobe, each with unique traits.

  • Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC): Begins in the renal pelvis, where urine drains into the ureter. It accounts for 5–10% of cases and behaves similarly to bladder cancer.

  • Wilms’ Tumor: A rare kidney cancer that mainly affects children, usually between ages 3 and 4. Early detection has improved outcomes.

  • Renal Sarcoma: A very rare cancer starting in kidney connective tissue, <1% of cases. It is aggressive and typically requires surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

  • Clear Cell Sarcoma of the Kidney: Another rare type that mostly affects children and can spread to lungs or bones. Treatment often includes surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation.

Diagnosis: Diagnosing kidney cancer involves several steps to detect and confirm the presence of cancer cells. Early diagnosis is critical to successful treatment. Doctors begin with medical history and physical exam. If cancer is suspected, further tests determine its stage and spread:

  • Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI provide detailed kidney images.

  • Blood tests: Reveal abnormal kidney function or markers of cancer.

  • Urine tests: Can detect blood or abnormalities linked to kidney cancer.

  • Biopsy: A sample of kidney tissue is examined microscopically to confirm cancer.

  • Cystoscopy: A camera-equipped tube is inserted into the bladder to check for tumors.

  • Bone scan: Used if cancer may have spread to bones.

Treatment Cost: Cancer immunotherapy can be expensive due to its effectiveness in targeting cancer cells. Many Western countries offer it, but costs are often high. In India, we provide immunotherapy at affordable prices so everyone can access treatment. Costs may vary based on disease severity, therapy type, age, and more. Our commitment is to keep prices reasonable compared to Western standards.

Success Rate: Immunotherapy is among the most promising treatment options for kidney cancer in India, delivering strong results by boosting the immune system. It helps ease symptoms, slow disease progression, and enhance quality of life. Many lives have been improved through this therapy. Success rates depend on factors like age and cancer stage. Research continues to make immunotherapy more effective for all patients.