Blood Pressure May Raise Kidney Cancer Risk, Doctors Warn

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is emerging as a global serious health problem with almost 4,00,000 new cases recorded every year, with approximately 1,75,000 related deaths. Kidney cancer largely affects people above the age of 50 years, with almost three times the number in men compared to women. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a recognized risk factor for kidney cancer, increasing the likelihood of developing it. Those with long-term and uncontrolled hypertension face a higher risk, as the condition can damage kidney function over time, potentially leading to cancer. “Individuals with hypertension have nearly double the risk of developing kidney cancer. Research has also found that those affected with hypertension are at a 2

times higher risk of developing kidney cancer, with a rise in 10 per cent risk for every 10 mm Hg rise in systolic blood pressure. Understanding this link is vital, as both hypertension and kidney cancer often develop silently, without noticeable symptoms in their early stages,” Dr Unmesh Mukherjee, Consultant Radiation Oncology, HCG ICS Khubchandani Cancer Centre, told Times Now. Unmanaged high blood pressure can harm the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to damage and dysfunction, which can increase cancer risk. Also, hypertension, which is often linked with obesity, alters hormone levels, contributing to the formation of tumours in the kidneys.

What are the highest risk groups?

According to Dr Mukherjee, there are many factors that contribute towards an increased risk of kidney cancer, which include:

• Smoking
• The intake of certain chemicals
• Family members who may have kidney cancer
• The formation of kidney stones
• Chronic kidney disease
• Metabolic conditions.

How does kidney cancer develop?

Kidney cancer is created when cells in the kidneys begin growing out of control, thus forming a tumour. “This tumour will grow to various parts of the body if left untreated. Symptoms include bleeding in the urine, pain in the back, and loss of weight, yet this cancer is silent when it is growing inside the body,” said Dr Mukherjee.

Understanding the biological link

The relationship between high blood pressure and kidney cancer is complex, wherein high blood pressure affects the kidney blood vessels, generating various molecules that promote tumor formation. Obesity and insulin resistance also tend to act as independent risk factors for kidney cancer.

Why is early detection important?

Early diagnosis makes a huge difference in enhancing outcomes. People with a high risk should undergo screening processes beginning at the age of 40, with ultrasound and function tests of the kidneys. Considering the late onset of signs, early screening processes become very vital.

How to control your blood pressure to prevent kidney cancer?

According to Dr Mukherjee, proper blood pressure control is essential in the prevention of kidney cancers. These include:

• Limiting daily salt consumption
• Being of the normal weight for one’s height
• Living an active life
• Sticking to medication for blood pressure, rather than stopping the medication because of the possible effects encountered.