World Kidney Cancer Day 2025: Know It Early. Fight It Better.

📅 Observed on June 19, 2025
✍️ By Dr. Sagar Joshi, Consultant Urologist, Laparoscopic, & Kidney Transplant Surgeon, Vadodara, Gujarat

🌍 Understanding World Kidney Cancer Day

World Kidney Cancer Day is observed annually on the third Thursday of June. This year, it falls on June 19, 2025. Initiated by the International Kidney Cancer Coalition (IKCC) in 2017, this global health awareness day aims to educate the public about kidney cancer, reduce the stigma around it, encourage early detection, and advocate for better access to diagnostics and treatment worldwide.

The theme for 2025 is “Show Your Kidneys Some Love”—a reminder to take proactive steps in preserving kidney health through lifestyle changes, awareness, and timely medical evaluations.

🧬 What Is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer, or renal cancer, begins in the cells of the kidney. The most prevalent type is Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC), accounting for approximately 90% of all kidney cancer cases. Other less common types include transitional cell carcinoma, Wilms’ tumor (in children), and renal sarcoma.

Unlike many cancers that present early symptoms, kidney cancer often remains silent until it is advanced. This makes education and awareness all the more vital.

⚠️ Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

In many cases, kidney cancer is discovered incidentally during scans done for unrelated reasons. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:

Visible or microscopic blood in the urine (hematuria)
Persistent pain in the side or lower back
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or intermittent fever
A palpable lump or swelling in the abdomen or side
Loss of appetite

These symptoms may also indicate other urological conditions, but any of them warrant evaluation by a qualified urologist.

🔍 Who Is at Risk?

Several risk factors have been identified for kidney cancer. Some are modifiable, while others are genetic or environmental. These include:

Smoking: Smokers are nearly twice as likely to develop kidney cancer.
Obesity: Excess weight is associated with hormonal and metabolic changes that may lead to cancer formation.
High Blood Pressure: Both hypertension and long-term use of certain anti-hypertensive drugs are linked to higher risk.
Family History: A first-degree relative with kidney cancer increases your risk significantly.
Prolonged use of NSAIDs: Long-term over-the-counter painkiller use (like ibuprofen) may harm the kidneys and raise cancer risk.
Age & Gender: Kidney cancer is more common in men and typically occurs after the age of 50.
Chronic Kidney Disease or those on dialysis also have an increased risk.

🧪 Diagnosis & Screening

Most kidney cancers are detected through imaging studies such as:

Ultrasound – Often the first imaging test when a kidney mass is suspected.
CT Scan / MRI – Provide detailed imaging to assess the size, location, and spread of the tumor.

Additional diagnostic steps may include:

Urine tests – To detect blood or abnormal cells.
Blood tests – To assess kidney function and anemia.
Biopsy – Occasionally performed to confirm diagnosis, especially when imaging is inconclusive.

Early detection is key. Localized kidney cancer (confined to the kidney) has a 5-year survival rate of about 93%. However, if the disease spreads beyond the kidney, outcomes can become significantly worse.

🛡️ Prevention: Protecting Your Kidney Health

While not all cases of kidney cancer are preventable, a majority of risk factors are lifestyle-related and can be controlled:

Maintain a healthy body weight.
Stop smoking and avoid exposure to harmful toxins.
Control blood pressure through diet, exercise, and prescribed medication.
Stay hydrated with adequate fluid intake.
Use painkillers responsibly and only under medical supervision.
Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Routine health check-ups, especially after age 50 or in those with risk factors, can help catch problems early.

🩺 Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer

Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage, size, and whether it has spread. Common approaches include:

Surgery: This is the primary treatment for localized kidney tumors. Options include partial nephrectomy (removing the tumor only) or radical nephrectomy (removal of the entire kidney).
Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery: These minimally invasive methods offer quicker recovery and fewer complications, when appropriate.
Targeted Therapy: Medications that block specific growth pathways used by cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Stimulates the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Palliative Treatment: In advanced stages, treatment may focus on symptom relief and quality of life.

A multidisciplinary approach—combining urologists, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists—ensures the best outcomes.

💚 Conclusion: Early Awareness Saves Lives

Kidney cancer may not make headlines like some other diseases, but its burden is very real—and often preventable. The earlier it is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment.

On this World Kidney Cancer Day, let us pledge to stay informed, encourage loved ones to get screened, and adopt healthier lifestyles that support kidney wellness. Every life saved starts with awareness.

Your kidneys matter. Know the risks. Act early. Live better.

World Kidney Cancer Day 2025: Know It Early. Fight It Better.