Kidney Cancer Facts
What Is Renal medullary carcinoma (RMC)?
Renal medullary carcinoma (RMC) is a rare and aggressive type of kidney cancer that originates in the renal medulla, the inner portion of the kidney. Kidney cancer is one of the top 10 most common cancers in both men and women in the United States. Known as the "silent killer," it can progress without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making awareness and early detection critical.
Prevalence
- Every year, approximately 79,000 new cases of kidney cancer are diagnosed in the U.S.
- Men are twice as likely to develop kidney cancer compared to women.
- African American men face a higher risk than other racial groups.
- RMC is more common in young adults, particularly African Americans with sickle cell trait.
- The average age at diagnosis is around 30 years.
- It is extremely rare in people without sickle cell trait.
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase your risk include:
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): A major contributor to kidney cancer.
- Smoking: Smokers are at a much higher risk.
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases the likelihood of kidney cancer.
- Family History: A history of kidney cancer in close relatives raises your risk.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: Prolonged kidney problems can lead to cancer.
Prevention Tips
1. Maintain a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise.
2. Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products.
3. Monitor and manage blood pressure and diabetes effectively.
4. Stay hydrated and avoid overusing painkillers that can damage the kidneys.
5. Limit exposure to harmful chemicals, such as industrial toxins.
Symptoms
Be aware of the following warning signs:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Persistent pain in the side or lower back
- A lump or mass in the kidney area
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Fever
- Night sweats
Did You Know?
- Early-stage kidney cancer has a high survival rate when detected and treated promptly.
- Many cases of kidney cancer are discovered accidentally during imaging tests for unrelated health conditions.
Why Awareness Matters
Early detection and education can save lives. By recognizing symptoms, understanding risk factors, and promoting screenings, we can help reduce the impact of kidney cancer in our communities.
