Kidney Cancer Cure - What Should You Know?

Kidney cancer refers to any form of cancer that involves the kidney. The disease usually originates in two portions of the kidney – the renal pelvis and the renal tubule. It is one of the most common types of cancer, affecting nearly one out of every 63 people.

Obesity, older age, high blood pressure, smoking and others are some of the factors that increase the likelihood of developing kidney cancer. A person diagnosed with kidney cancer in the early stage will most likely encounter symptoms like –

• Blood in the urine

• A lump near the kidneys

• A persistent pain near the kidneys

• Fever and night sweats

• Fatigue and tiredness

• Weight loss

One should follow up with an oncologist upon experiencing the above symptoms. Is kidney cancer curable? Kidney cancer treatment depends on multiple factors – the stage and type of cancer, the patient’s overall health condition etc. However, if cancer has metastasized, the doctor/specialist may recommend palliative treatment to manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Often, people think of palliative treatment as an end-stage treatment. Nevertheless, the approach can prove beneficial if given during the initial stages. It is about living for as long as possible in the most satisfying way possible.

A team of healthcare professionals come together to meet your emotional, physical, and social needs. Treatment may include –

• Radiation therapy to ease pain from the disease that has spread to the bones

• Arterial embolization – a method that blocks the supply of blood to the kidneys and the tumour present inside

• Immunotherapy – helps the immune system to fight against cancer cells

• Targeted therapy – works by targeting cancer-specific proteins, genes and tissues that contribute to the growth of cancer

Palliative treatment, as a part of integrated oncology, has been a boon to cancer patients worldwide. It not only helps deal with the disease physically but also helps to cope mentally.