The Danger of Silent Progression in Kidney Cancer and Key Symptoms
Experts state that kidney cancer generally progresses silently, warning against symptoms such as flank pain, blood in the urine, and an abdominal mass.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özgür Yazıcı, a Urology Specialist at Yeditepe University Hospitals, emphasized that kidney cancer mostly progresses without symptoms, drawing attention to three main signs: flank pain, blood in the urine, and an abdominal mass.
Incidence of Kidney Cancer
Renal cell carcinoma accounts for approximately 3 percent of all cancer types and is held responsible for the vast majority of kidney cancers.
Risk Factors Triggering the Disease
More common in men than women, risk factors that increase the likelihood of kidney cancer include advanced age, smoking, obesity, hypertension, and a family history of cancer.
Three Symptoms to Watch Out For
Although the classical symptoms of the disease—flank pain, blood in the urine, and an abdominal mass—are quite rare, these findings generally indicate an advanced stage.
Impact of Early Diagnosis on Treatment
Today, a large portion of kidney tumors are detected incidentally at an early stage using methods such as ultrasound, computed tomography, or MRI, which increases treatment success.
Modern Methods in Surgery
In recent years, laparoscopic and robotic surgical methods have come to the forefront in surgical treatment, which remains the gold standard for kidney cancer.
Ways to Protect Against Cancer
Staying away from smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity are among the most effective measures to protect against kidney cancer.