Adrenal Cancer Causes and Risk Factors

Adrenal cancer (carcinoma) develops in one or both adrenal glands. Situated on top of the kidneys, these small, triangular glands produce essential hormones that regulate the body’s stress response, blood pressure and metabolism.

An adrenal tumor may develop in the outer layer of the gland (adrenal cortex), which produces steroid hormones, or the inner layer of the gland (adrenal medulla), which produces adrenaline. Most growths that form in the adrenal glands are benign, such as adenomas and pheochromocytomas. Adrenal cancer is relatively rare.

Because adrenal tumors can affect hormone levels, their symptoms can include high blood pressure and noticeable physical changes, such as weight gain. When detected early, adrenal cancer can often be effectively treated and even cured. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

What causes adrenal cancer?

Like many cancers, adrenal cancer begins with a harmful DNA change in a single cell. DNA contains instructions for all aspects of cellular function, including growth, replication and death. As a result of the mutation, the DNA provides faulty instructions, causing the cell to multiply uncontrollably and outlive its normal lifespan. Eventually, abnormal cells may build up and form a tumor. Additionally, cancerous cells can potentially break away from the primary tumor and spread to nearby tissues and distant organs.

In approximately 15% of cases, the DNA mutations that lead to the development of adrenal cancer are inherited; the rest occur spontaneously. Scientists do not yet fully understand the precise cause.

What are the risk factors for adrenal cancer?

Adrenal cancer is a complex condition associated with several characteristics, behaviors and exposures. While some of these risk factors can be controlled, others cannot.

Adrenal cancer risk factors that can be controlled

By making healthy lifestyle changes, it may be possible to control certain adrenal cancer risk factors, such as:

• Smoking – Tobacco use is a well-established risk factor for many types of cancer, including adrenal cancer.
• Exposure to harmful substances – Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which include chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, dioxins and certain pesticides, can mimic or interfere with the body’s natural hormones, potentially leading to disruptions in hormonal balance and cellular regulation.

Adrenal cancer risk factors that cannot be controlled

Certain adrenal cancer risk factors cannot be controlled, such as:

• Inherited cancer predisposition syndromes – Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, Carney complex, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Lynch syndrome and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN 1) are known risk factors for adrenal cancer.
• Family history – Individuals with a close family member who was diagnosed with adrenal cancer or a related genetic syndrome are at heightened risk.
• Age – While adrenal cancer can occur at any age, it is most likely to affect children younger than 5 and adults in their 40s or 50s.

Can adrenal cancer be prevented?

Preventing adrenal cancer is difficult due to its rarity and the significant role of genetic risk factors, which are largely uncontrollable. However, general preventive measures can be taken to reduce overall cancer risk. These include:

• Making healthy lifestyle choices – While specific lifestyle factors linked directly to adrenal cancer prevention are not well-established, maintaining a healthy body weight, eating a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco can help reduce the risk of many types of cancer.
• Minimizing exposure to toxins – Reducing exposure to known carcinogens and EDCs can be beneficial because these harmful substances can increase cancer risk through hormonal imbalances or direct DNA damage.
• Receiving genetic counseling and testing – Individuals with a family history of adrenal cancer or a related genetic syndrome may benefit from genetic counseling, which can include personalized risk management strategies and regular monitoring for early signs of cancer.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about adrenal cancer causes and risk factors

The following FAQs-related article provides additional information about adrenal cancer causes and risk factors:

• What causes adrenal nodules?

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

Moffitt’s designated endocrine cancer research team provides ongoing insights into the development and treatment of adrenal tumors, and we have achieved many noteworthy advances in the field. In recognition of our achievements and robust portfolio of clinical trials, the National Cancer Institute has designated Moffitt a Comprehensive Cancer Center.

If you would like to learn more about adrenal cancer causes and risk factors, you can request an appointment with a specialist in Moffitt’s renowned Endocrine Oncology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We offer comprehensive cancer care, including genetic counseling, screenings and other services to assist with prevention and early detection. We do not require referrals.