World Kidney Cancer Day 2025: Chronic kidney disease increases the risk of cancer, know what causes CKD

By Admin

19 Jun, 2025

New Delhi:
Every year, World Kidney Cancer Day is observed on the third Thursday of June to raise global awareness about kidney cancer and promote better kidney health. In 2025, the day falls on June 19. This observance is particularly important as it sheds light on the link between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney cancer a connection that many may not be aware of.

Understanding the Link Between CKD and Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, can develop due to various factors   and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one of the significant contributors. CKD is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter blood effectively. This leads to a buildup of harmful toxins and fluids in the body, severely impacting overall health and increasing the risk of kidney failure and cancer.

Patients with CKD often undergo dialysis to support the removal of waste products and maintain basic kidney function. However, preventing the disease in its early stages remains the most effective way to reduce complications   including the risk of kidney cancer.

Major Causes of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

1. Diabetes
   One of the leading causes of CKD, diabetes damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys. Persistently high blood sugar levels impair the kidneys’ filtering ability, leading to diabetic nephropathy   a key risk factor for kidney failure.
   
   

2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
   Constantly high blood pressure exerts excessive force on blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the kidneys. Over time, this pressure causes scarring and loss of function, contributing to CKD.
   
   

3. Glomerulonephritis
   This group of diseases causes inflammation in the glomeruli   the filtering units of the kidneys. The condition may be acute or chronic, often resulting from infections, autoimmune disorders, or unknown triggers, and leads to gradual kidney deterioration.
   
   

4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)
   PKD is a hereditary condition characterized by the growth of numerous fluid-filled cysts within the kidneys. These cysts enlarge over time, replacing healthy tissue and leading to impaired kidney function and potential failure.
   
   

5. Recurrent Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis)
   Frequent or poorly managed kidney infections can cause chronic inflammation and scarring in renal tissues. This lasting damage gradually reduces kidney function and may lead to CKD.
   
   

6. Nephrotoxic Drugs
   Long-term or unsupervised use of certain medications   such as NSAIDs, some antibiotics, and chemotherapy drugs   can harm kidney tissues. These drugs are termed “nephrotoxic” and can contribute to the development of CKD.
   
   

7. Prolonged Urinary Tract Obstruction
   Conditions such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can obstruct the flow of urine. Over time, this causes pressure buildup and tissue damage within the kidneys, leading to chronic kidney impairment.
   
   

Conclusion

On this World Kidney Cancer Day 2025, it’s crucial to recognize how conditions like Chronic Kidney Disease can silently escalate into life-threatening complications, including kidney cancer. By understanding the causes and maintaining regular health check-ups, individuals can take preventive measures to safeguard their kidney health.