Do you overuse paracetamol? Urologist says it can increase kidney cancer risk; know these 10 everyday habits to avoid

By Admin

18 Jun, 2025

Kidney cancer is often called a "silent killer" and for good reason. It typically remains undetected until it reaches an advanced stage. While genetics do have a role to play, lifestyle choices are proving to be just as influential, if not more, in increasing the risk of developing this disease.

In an eye-opening conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Amit Saple, Executive Director and Senior Consultant Urologist at Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, Vizag, pointed out how seemingly harmless habits we follow every day could quietly be damaging our kidneys and potentially increasing our risk of cancer.

“The roots of risk may be hiding in our kitchens, routines, and medicine cabinets,” warns Dr. Saple.

Below are 10 everyday habits that could be harming your kidneys and raising your cancer risk:

1. Skipping Water, Living on Tea or Soft Drinks

Hydration is critical for kidney health. Relying on tea, coffee, or sugary soft drinks and neglecting water intake especially in hot and humid regions can lead to dehydration. This, in turn, reduces kidney function and increases the accumulation of toxins, creating a cancer-prone environment.

2. High Salt Intake in Food

From pickles and papads to packaged foods and fast food, salt has infiltrated our meals deeply. Over time, this excessive salt puts strain on the kidneys, which may eventually lead to cellular damage and raise the risk of kidney cancer.

3. Overusing Painkillers Like Paracetamol

Frequently taking over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen, or diclofenac whether for headaches or minor fevers can gradually damage kidney tissues. Dr. Saple cautions that self-medication is a common but underestimated contributor to kidney problems and cancer risk.

4. Tobacco in Any Form

Tobacco, whether smoked or chewed, introduces harmful carcinogens into the body. These toxins reach the kidneys via the bloodstream and contribute significantly to cancer development. Quitting tobacco in all its forms is one of the most effective steps to reduce risk.

5. Excessive Red or Processed Meat

Consuming large amounts of grilled, fried, or processed meats releases harmful chemicals during cooking. These chemicals have been linked to various forms of cancer, including kidney cancer. A diet focused on plant-based foods offers much better protection.

6. Sedentary Lifestyle

Lack of physical activity not only promotes obesity but also leads to high blood pressure and insulin resistance. These conditions strain kidney function and increase the likelihood of cancerous growths. Simple habits like daily walks or short workouts can make a big difference.

7. Ignoring High Blood Pressure or Diabetes

Uncontrolled high blood pressure and diabetes silently damage small blood vessels in the kidneys. Over time, this reduces kidney efficiency and heightens the risk of kidney cancer. Early detection and management are essential.

8. Alcohol and Tobacco Combo

When alcohol and tobacco are used together, the damage to the kidneys multiplies. This deadly duo accelerates organ deterioration, and moderation or complete avoidance is crucial to lower cancer risk.

9. Skipping Regular Health Checkups

Many kidney cancers are discovered accidentally during scans for unrelated health issues. Routine checkups and screenings are key to catching any warning signs before they escalate.

10. Thinking “It Won’t Happen to Me”

A false sense of immunity often prevents people from making proactive changes. If there’s a family history of kidney disease or cancer, adopting preventive habits and undergoing regular screenings becomes even more important.

Final Thoughts
Paracetamol may offer temporary relief, but long-term reliance on it and other seemingly minor lifestyle habits can come at a heavy price. It’s time to rethink what we consider ‘normal’ and make conscious changes for better kidney health. After all, prevention starts at home with awareness, hydration, exercise, and moderation.