What are the causes of kidney cancer?

Jun 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I smoke frequently and have a strong nicotine addiction. I also usually enjoy eating high-fat foods. I am now worried about developing kidney cancer. Could you please tell me what are the causes of kidney cancer?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong
The causes of kidney cancer are complex and diverse, mainly including the following factors: 1. **Genetic factors**: Genetic factors play a certain role in the development of kidney cancer. Approximately 2% to 4% of kidney cancer patients have a family history of hereditary kidney cancer, which may be related to chromosomal variations or gene mutations. 2. **Unhealthy lifestyle habits**: Long-term smoking is a major risk factor for kidney cancer. Individuals who have smoked for more than 30 years face a significantly increased risk of developing kidney cancer. In addition, obesity, hypertension, and unhealthy dietary habits, such as high-salt and high-fat diets, are also associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer. 3. **Occupational exposure**: People who are exposed to certain chemical substances over long periods, such as workers in the petroleum, leather, and asbestos industries, as well as those exposed to certain radiation environments, such as radiology workers, may have an increased risk of developing kidney cancer. Understanding these risk factors can help in taking preventive measures to reduce the incidence of kidney cancer.