4 Kinds of Incontinence and How They’re Treated
Urinary incontinence is inconvenient and embarrassing. Read on to learn about the four types of incontinence and what you can do to reclaim your bladder control.
Is Kidney Cancer Hereditary?
More than 81,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2024. Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking and obesity, put you at risk of developing this serious disease. In a small number of cases, there is also a genetic link.
Dr. W. Cooper Buschemeyer here at Buschemeyer Urology in Conroe, Willis, and The Woodlands, Texas, treats patients with kidney cancer. With early detection and successful treatment, the vast majority of patients have a very good chance of survival for five years or longer.
Read for valuable information that helps you understand more about the genetic factors that may contribute to the onset of kidney cancer.
All about kidney cancer
Kidney cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the kidneys grow uncontrollably, forming a kidney tumor. There are several types of kidney cancer, with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) being the most common.
While the exact cause of kidney cancer remains unknown, certain risk factors, such as smoking, obesity, and exposure to certain chemicals, have been linked to its development.
Genetics and kidney cancer
While most cases of kidney cancer occur by chance and are not inherited, a small percentage of cases have been linked to genetic factors. Several hereditary syndromes, such as von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC), and Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) syndrome, are associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer.
If you have a family history of kidney cancer or any of these hereditary syndromes, you may have a higher likelihood of developing the disease themselves.
Genetic testing for kidney cancer
For anyone with a family history of kidney cancer or known hereditary syndromes, we may recommend genetic testing and counseling. These can be valuable tools for assessing your risk and making informed decisions about your health.
Genetic testing can identify specific gene mutations associated with kidney cancer, allowing you to better understand what screenings, lifestyle changes, and management plans you need to stay healthy.
We can recommend the best genetic screening for your specific case and analyze the results.
Reducing your risk of kidney cancer
Understanding any genetic risk factors or conditions that are associated with kidney cancer is one step in preventing the disease.
Other steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing kidney cancer are:
- Quit smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk of kidney cancer
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity raises the risk of kidney cancer
- Minimize chemical exposure: Avoid prolonged exposure to chemicals like trichloroethylene, found in some metal fabrication work
- Monitor kidney function: Regular blood and urine tests can assess kidney health and detect any issues early
- Manage high blood pressure: Hypertension is linked to a higher risk of kidney cancer
- Control diabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney cancer
Kidney cancer is primarily caused by factors other than genetics, but if you do have a family history of the disease or have known hereditary syndromes, stay vigilant with screenings. You should also inform our office of your potential genetic link so we can help you make informed decisions about your health and take appropriate measures to reduce your risk.
If you have concerns about your risk of kidney cancer or a family history of the disease, don’t hesitate to reach out to Buschemeyer Urology. Call today or use the online tool to schedule an appointment.
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