What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Kidney Cancer?
Researchers have found several important risk factors for renal cell carcinoma, and are beginning to understand how these risk factors can alter the DNA of kidney cells and cause these cells to become cancerous. The common risk factors include: Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor. It increases the risk of developing renal cell carcinoma by about 40 percent. Gender: Renal cell carcinoma is about twice as common in men. Obesity: People who are obese have an increased risk of kidney cancer. Physical activity: Several studies have found that inactive people are more likely to develop kidney cancer than people who exercise regularly. Chemicals: Many studies suggest that workplace exposure to certain chemicals and substances increases the risk for renal cell carcinoma. Some of these are asbestos, cadmium (a type of metal), some herbicides, benzene, and organic solvents, particularly trichloroethylene. Family history: People with a close family history of renal cell cancer, part
