World Kideny Cancer Day: How Distribution Of Body Fat Impacts Risk Of Kidney Cancer

Obesity, characterised by excessive accumulation of body fat, has been consistently linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including kidney cancer.

One of the key pathways through which excess body fat contributes to kidney cancer risk is through chronic inflammation.

In the context of kidney cancer, chronic inflammation may contribute to the transformation of normal kidney cells into cancerous ones.

Accumulation of fat around the waist, known as visceral fat, poses a higher risk for kidney cancer compared to overall body fat.

Abdominal obesity is closely associated with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia which can promote the growth and proliferation of kidney cancer cells.

While abdominal fat carries a higher risk, overall body fat, or adiposity, also contributes to kidney cancer risk, albeit to a lesser extent.

Hypertension and diabetes contribute to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, further exacerbating the impact of excess body fat on kidney cancer risk.

Lifestyle modifications, including regular physical activity and a balanced diet, can help reduce abdominal fat and overall body fat, thereby lowering the risk of kidney cancer.

Screening and early detection strategies should consider the association between obesity-related factors and kidney cancer, facilitating timely interventions and improving outcomes.

Inputs By: Dr Shivpal Rathod Consulting General Surgeon Ruby Hall Clinic Hinjewadi