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Reducing Your Risk of Kidney Cancer

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A risk factor increases your chances of developing cancer. Modifying the following risk factors may help reduce your risk of kidney cancer.

Because doctors do not know what causes kidney cancer, there are no well-established guidelines for reducing your risk of the disease.

General Guidelines

Avoid Exposure to Cancer-causing Substances

Avoiding exposure to cancer-causing substances will decrease your risk of developing kidney cancer. Suggestions include:

  • Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit .
  • Do not work or live in places that contain asbestos or other kidney cancer-causing toxins.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is thought to be a risk factor for kidney cancer. If you are overweight, a healthy diet and exercise may reduce your risk of kidney cancer as well as other health problems. Talk to your doctor about changing your diet and starting an exercise routine.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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All rights reserved.

References

  • American Cancer Society website. Available at: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/home/index.asp?level=0 .

  • Kidney Cancer Association website. Available at: http://www.kidneycancerassociation.org/ .

  • National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/ .

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