Kidney Cancer Cases Rise in Almaty as Silent Symptoms Delay Diagnosis

Kidney cancer remains a notable health concern in Almaty. In 2021, 164 new cases were diagnosed, adding to a total of 1,116 registered cases in the city. The disease accounts for 3.6% of all malignant tumours there. Kidney cancer often develops without early symptoms due to the deep location of the organs. Tumours can grow undetected until they cause noticeable issues. Common signs include blood in the urine and persistent lower back pain.

Sharp pain in the kidney area may also occur if the urinary tract becomes blocked. These symptoms should prompt medical attention.

The disease mostly affects people aged 50 to 70. Major risk factors include smoking, obesity, and long-term use of painkillers. Occupational exposure to certain chemicals and genetic predisposition also play a role. Early detection is crucial for improving treatment success and survival rates. Recognising symptoms and understanding risk factors can help identify the disease sooner. Health authorities continue to monitor cases closely in the region.