Blood in urine and other ignored symptoms may signal kidney cancer: Specialists warn

New Delhi: Kidney cancer is often diagnosed late because its early signs are either mild or mistaken for common health issues. Doctors say the disease is surrounded by several myths that can delay timely medical attention, including the belief that it only affects older men or that normal urine colour rules out kidney problems. In reality, kidney cancer can develop silently and may remain unnoticed until symptoms become more pronounced.

Medical experts stress that warning signs such as blood in urine, persistent pain in the side or back, unexplained weight loss, fever without infection or a lump in the abdomen should not be ignored. Lifestyle factors like smoking, uncontrolled blood pressure and obesity can increase risk, while early diagnosis plays a crucial role in improving treatment outcomes. Doctors also highlight that treatment is not one-size-fits-all and depends on stage, tumour size and overall patient health.

Kidney cancer: Myths, reality and treatment approach

Dr Atul Goswami, Director, Robotic & Laproscopic Urology & Uro-Oncology, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi, said kidney-related cancer is often surrounded by misconceptions that delay diagnosis. He noted that many people believe it is a rare disease or one that affects only elderly men, whereas risk is influenced by lifestyle, body factors and tobacco exposure. The doctor also clarified that normal urine colour does not guarantee kidney health, as kidney cancer can remain silent for long periods. Dr Goswami added that symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss and repeated blood in urine require medical attention. He explained that treatment is personalised and may include surgery or active surveillance depending on tumour stage, size and patient health.

Kidney cancer: Silent symptoms and risk prevention

Dr G Mehar Kumar, Director – Medical Oncology, Regency Hospital, Gorakhpur, said kidney cancer is often called a silent disease because early stages may not show clear symptoms. He listed warning signs such as blood in urine, persistent side or back pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, fever without infection and abdominal lump. The doctor said these symptoms are often ignored or mistaken for minor infections or muscle pain, which can delay diagnosis. He highlighted that prevention involves quitting smoking, maintaining healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, staying physically active and avoiding unnecessary painkiller use. Dr Mehar Kumar added that people with family history or long-term dialysis need closer monitoring, and early imaging can significantly improve treatment outcomes.