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There are no means that are specifically known to
decrease the risk of kidney cancer other than avoidance of exposure
to chemicals and radiation. However, as factors such as obesity,
a high fat diet, and hypertension are known to be associated with
an increased risk for kidney cancer, it is quite clear that a healthy
diet, and a healthy lifestyle, will most likely minimize the risk
of developing kidney cancer. Eating well, exercising and maintaining
a healthy weight are all parts of a healthy lifestyle. The following
is a generalized list of ways to minimize the risk of several types
of cancer.
- Quit smoking – Smoking is
associated with many adverse health effects including the development
of most types of cancer. Smokers have twice the risk of developing
kidney cancer compared to non-smokers. As such, quitting smoking
is one of the very best ways to decrease your chance of developing
kidney cancer as well as improve the quality of your life in may
other regards.
- A healthy diet – A healthy
diet has many positive healthy effects including decreasing the
risk of kidney cancer. Eating more fruits and vegetables will
help prevent many different types of cancer including kidney cancer.
In particular, eating root type vegetables such as carrots and
beets has been particularly associated with a decreased cancer
risk. It is likely that a diet which is lower in fat will also
help to minimize the risk of developing kidney cancer.
- Exercise and physical activity
– An active lifestyle has many positive healthy benefits
including decreasing high blood pressure, strengthening bones,
helping to maintain a healthy weight, and reducing the risk of
kidney cancer. It is important to discuss an exercise or physical
activity regimen with your doctor, but most physicians suggest
getting at least 30 minutes a day of exercise.
- Maintaining a normal blood pressure
– Kidney cancer has been linked to high blood pressure. Certainly,
a healthy diet and regular physical activity will help to maintain
a normal blood pressure. Regular check-ups by your doctor with
monitoring of blood pressure are part of a healthy lifestyle and
will help to minimize the risk of kidney cancer.
- Chemical exposure – Minimizing
exposure to chemicals both at home and in the workplace may help
to decrease the risk of kidney cancer. Wearing gloves and other
protective equipment can help to minimize this risk.
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