Kidney cancer occurs when kidney cells grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. It is also called renal cell carcinoma. This cancer occurs most often after the age of 60, and is more common in men than women.
Symptoms of kidney cancer
The symptoms of kidney cancer are often not obvious in the early stages. As the cancer progresses, the following symptoms begin to appear:
- Blood in the urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Fever with weight loss
Causes of kidney cancer
There can be many causes behind kidney cancer, including:
- Smoking: Individuals who smoke for a long time are at a higher risk of kidney cancer.
- Obesity: Excessive weight causes hormonal changes in the body that can increase the risk of cancer.
- High blood pressure: People with high blood pressure have an increased risk of kidney cancer.
- Family history: If someone in the family has had kidney cancer, the risk of this disease increases.
Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is diagnosed through a number of medical tests. The major tests include the following:
- Ultrasound: This test helps to find out the size and location of the tumor.
- CT Scan: Helps to understand the exact location and stage of cancer.
- MRI Scan: It is done to get information about the spread of cancer in the body.
- Biopsy: In this process, a sample of cancerous tissue is taken through a needle and examined.
Treatment of Kidney Cancer
Treatment by surgery
The most common and effective treatment for kidney cancer is surgery, in which part or all of the cancerous kidney is removed. There are two main types of it:
Partial nephrectomy: In this, only the cancer-affected area is removed.
Radical nephrectomy: In this procedure, the entire kidney is removed, and sometimes the surrounding organs are also removed.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays that destroy cancer cells. It helps eliminate cancer cells left after surgery.
Chemotherapy
In chemotherapy, medicines are used to destroy cancer cells. However, the effect of chemotherapy on kidney cancer is limited.
Immunotherapy
In immunotherapy, special medicines are used to increase the body's immunity, so that the body can fight cancer cells on its own.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a new treatment method that uses special medicines to stop the growth process of cancer cells. It is mostly used in cases of advanced kidney cancer.
Kidney Cancer Treatment Facilities in India
India has state-of-the-art facilities for kidney cancer treatment. Kidney cancer treatment in leading hospitals in India is done by highly trained doctors who have the latest medical equipment and technology. Moreover, world-class treatment is available here at affordable rates, making this country an attractive option for international patients as well.
Cost of Kidney Cancer Treatment in India
The cost of kidney cancer treatment depends on the condition of the patient, the stage of cancer and the type of treatment.
- Cost of surgery: Can range from around ₹2,00,000 to ₹6,00,000.
- Radiotherapy: Ranges between ₹1,00,000 to ₹3,00,000.
- Immunotherapy and chemotherapy: Costs ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000 per session.
How to reduce the risk of kidney cancer?
Some lifestyle changes can be made to reduce the risk of kidney cancer:
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a major cause of kidney cancer.
- Healthy diet: A balanced diet and regular exercise can keep the body healthy.
- Regular health checkups: By getting regular health checkups, potential problems can be diagnosed in time.
- Control weight: Avoid obesity and unhealthy weight.
Complications associated with kidney cancer
Kidney cancer can also spread to other parts of the body. If it is not treated on time, it can spread to the lungs, liver and bones. This can increase the severity of the disease and also increase the complications of treatment. Therefore, early diagnosis and proper treatment is important.
Conclusion
Kidney cancer can be completely controlled with timely diagnosis and proper treatment. With treatment options like surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, patients have a chance of a faster recovery. With the medical services and specialist doctors available in India, treating kidney cancer is not only possible but also affordable. If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of kidney cancer, contact a doctor quickly and get proper testing done.
