Kidney cancer a silent killer; early detection key, say experts

Hyderabad: Early diagnosis remains the most effective way to improve outcomes in kidney cancer treatment, Hyderabad Collector Priyanka Ala said while inaugurating an awareness walk organised by the Department of Renal Sciences at KIMS Hospitals, Kompally, on the occasion of International Kidney Cancer Day on Thursday.

Addressing participants, Ms. Ala stressed the need for greater public awareness about various diseases and cancers, noting that kidney cancer is emerging as one of the fastest-growing cancers globally. She underscored the importance of educating people about risk factors, symptoms, and the benefits of timely screening. that smoking, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and a family history of kidney cancer are among the major risk factors associated with the disease. Individuals with these risk factors should undergo regular health check-ups to facilitate early detection, he said.

Senior Consultant Urologist Dr. K. Seshu Mohan said kidney cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because it may not produce noticeable symptoms in its early phases. He advised individuals to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as blood in the urine, persistent pain in the lower back or side, an abdominal lump, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, or prolonged fatigue.

He said advances in medical technology at KIMS Hospitals, Kompally, have significantly improved treatment outcomes for kidney cancer patients. Minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries now enable surgeons to remove cancerous tissue while preserving healthy portions of the kidney, thereby improving recovery and long-term kidney function.

The specialists also emphasised that adopting a healthy lifestyle, including avoiding tobacco use, maintaining a healthy body weight, controlling blood pressure and diabetes, and regular follow-ups, helps in early detection and timely treatment the risk of kidney cancer.

Doctors called for increased public awareness and urged people not to ignore early warning signs, highlighting that timely medical intervention can save lives.

Consultant Urologist Dr. Amish J. Vani, Consultant Nephrologist Dr. Papayya Nirmal, hospital staff, and members of the public participated in the awareness walk.

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