• Age: Firstly, it is important to note that the risk of kidney cancer increases with age, and it is more commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 40.
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor for kidney cancer. Smokers have a higher likelihood of developing the disease compared to non-smokers.
• Obesity: The Best Urologist in Kolkata opines that being overweight or obese increases the risk of kidney cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise may help reduce this risk.
• Family History: Individuals with a family history of kidney cancer may have an elevated risk, particularly if a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) has had kidney cancer.
• Hereditary Conditions: Certain genetic conditions, such as von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma, and Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, are linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer.
• Occupational Exposures: Some workplace exposures to certain substances, such as asbestos, cadmium, and certain herbicides, have been associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer.
• Gender and Race: Men are generally more likely to develop kidney cancer than women. Certain racial and ethnic groups, such as African Americans and American Indians, may also have a slightly higher risk.
• Other Kidney Disease: Individuals with certain kidney diseases, such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or those who have undergone kidney transplantation, may have an increased risk of kidney cancer.

However, it is important to note that kidney cancer can occur in individuals without any known risk factors. Conversely, having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that someone will definitely develop kidney cancer. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding known risk factors, such as smoking, can contribute to overall health and potentially reduce the risk of kidney cancer.

Therefore, if you have concerns about your risk for kidney cancer, it is highly advisable to discuss them with a urologist in Kolkata who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.