Kidney Cancer

Preface

I have been a medical research scientist for over three decades. Initially, my work focused on neurosciences, diabetes, and urology. In neurosciences, I explored Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, spinal cord injuries, and head injuries, among others. Gradually, I shifted my focus to urology, which studies diseases of the kidneys, prostate, and urinary bladder, and to oncology, the study of cancers. With a PhD in kidney cancer, I have published over 50 research articles, edited a book, and co-supervised Honors, Masters, and PhD students.

Passionate researchers typically lead two mutually exclusive lifestyles: the laboratory life, characterized by a language replete with scientific jargon that can be incomprehensible to even native English speakers, and a social life, which, if it exists at all, presents a stark contrast. When in conversation with the general public and asked about my profession, I tell them that I am a medical research scientist. This revelation often garners enormous respect and prompts people, despite just meeting me, to open up about their own battles with diseases or those of their loved ones. They assume I have all the answers and begin asking questions.

However, I have found it challenging to explain complex medical concepts in simple terms without resorting to medical or scientific jargon. While I can write scientific papers, supervise PhD students, give lectures to my fellow researchers, and write competitive research proposals, communicating these concepts in a way that the general public can understand has been incredibly difficult.

I have long harbored the idea of writing about my practical experiences and explaining these diseases in simple terms, based on the questions I have been asked. Kidney Cancer: In Plain Language for Patients and Families is the first book in this mission. Simplifying the information was an incredibly difficult journey. To put this into context, writing this as a scientific article for a journal would take about one-fourth of the time. If I am accused of oversimplifying a complex disease, I will consider that an achievement.

I hope that this book will be a valuable resource for anyone affected by kidney cancer. Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or someone seeking to understand more about the disease, this book offers the information needed to navigate the challenges ahead with confidence.

Chris Morais, MSc, MPhil, PhD

OVERVIEW

This section covers the following topics:

Introduction

The Kidneys

Types of Kidney Cancer

Epidemiology

Modifiable risk factors

Non-modifiable Risk Factors

Genetic Risk Factors

Mechanisms of Kidney Cancer

Signs and Symptoms

Introduction

Kidney cancer is a daunting diagnosis that affects many lives, and understanding it can make a significant difference in managing the disease and navigating the treatment journey. This book aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible guide for patients, caregivers, and anyone seeking to learn more about kidney cancer. Written in straightforward language, it covers the essential aspects of kidney cancer, from diagnosis to treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support.

The book begins with an overview of kidney cancer, explaining what it is, how it develops, and the different types of kidney cancer. This foundation is crucial for understanding the subsequent discussions on diagnosis and treatment options. The early chapters dive into the diagnostic process, detailing the tests and procedures used to identify kidney cancer and determine its stage. This section helps demystify the medical terminology and procedures, making it easier for readers to grasp what to expect during their medical evaluations.

Following the diagnosis, the book explores the various treatment options available for kidney cancer. This includes surgical interventions like nephrectomy, as well as non-surgical treatments such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiation. Each treatment option is explained in terms of how it works, what to expect during the process, and the potential side effects. This part of the book aims to help readers with knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions about their treatment plans.

Living with kidney cancer often requires significant lifestyle changes, and this book provides practical advice on how to adapt. There are chapters on coping with a diagnosis, living with one kidney, and returning to work. The book also discusses the impact of kidney cancer on family dynamics. Additionally, the book addresses the importance of mental health and maintaining emotional well-being during and after treatment.

Accessing resources and support is a critical component of managing kidney cancer, and this book outlines general sources of assistance, as it varies from country to country. The book concludes with a discussion on palliative care, explaining its role in improving the quality of life for patients with advanced kidney cancer. This section covers the importance of symptom management, pain relief, and emotional support, highlighting how palliative care can be integrated into the overall treatment plan.

In line with the goal of simplifying the information, the contents are presented as short, easily digestible chapters.

The Kidneys

Kidney cancer is a condition characterized by the uncontrolled growth of malignant cells in the kidneys. Within the human body, the kidneys stand out for their exceptional capabilities. Picture them as a high-tech purification system that works tirelessly, day and night, to cleanse our blood. They filter out waste, excess substances, and dangerous toxins, which our body then eliminates through urine. Beyond filtration, the kidneys also produce hormones that regulate blood pressure, stimulate blood cell creation, and manage vitamin D levels to strengthen our bones. They also regulate electrolyte balance.

Located in the lower back, on both sides of the spine, the kidneys sit just beneath the ribcage (see the image below). Each kidney is about the size of a large fist or a computer mouse and has a bean-shaped structure. A network of blood vessels surrounds the kidneys,