Causes and Risk Factors for Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer develops when cells in the kidneys acquire genetic changes that cause them to grow and divide uncontrollably. While the exact cause is often unknown, certain health-related, environmental and lifestyle factors may increase the risk.

The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 81,000 new kidney cancer cases are diagnosed each year in the United States. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for approximately 90% of cases.

What causes kidney cancer?

Kidney cancer occurs when genetic mutations disrupt the normal growth and division of kidney cells. Over time, the abnormal cells can multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor that may grow into nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Researchers do not fully understand why some people develop kidney cancer. However, they have identified several biological and environmental factors that may contribute to DNA damage and the development of cancerous kidney cells. These include:

• Genetic mutations – Harmful changes in the DNA of kidney cells can interfere with normal cell growth, repair and death. These mutations may allow abnormal cells to survive and multiply uncontrollably.
• Inherited genetic conditions – Certain hereditary syndromes can increase the likelihood of developing kidney cancer by affecting the genes involved in tumor suppression and cell growth.
• DNA damage from tobacco exposure – Toxic chemicals found in tobacco products can enter the bloodstream and damage kidney cells as those cells filter waste from the body.
• Long-term cellular damage – Chronic exposure to harmful substances or ongoing stress on kidney tissue may contribute to the accumulation of genetic changes over time.

What are the risk factors for kidney cancer? 

Although kidney cancer can affect anyone, the risk of developing the condition may increase with:

• Older age – Kidney cancer is diagnosed most often in adults older than 60.
• Male sex – For reasons that are not fully understood, men develop kidney cancer more frequently than women.
• Family history of kidney cancer – Having a close relative with kidney cancer may increase risk, particularly when multiple family members are affected. This pattern may suggest an inherited predisposition to the condition.
• Certain inherited syndromes – Some genetic conditions, including von Hippel-Lindau disease, hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma and Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, are associated with a higher risk of kidney cancer.
• Chronic kidney disease – Long-term kidney dysfunction may increase the likelihood of developing kidney cancer.
• Dialysis treatment – Individuals receiving dialysis for kidney failure may face an increased risk of kidney cancer over time.
• High blood pressure – Hypertension is associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer, although the exact reason for this relationship remains unclear.
• Occupational exposure to certain chemicals – Exposure to harmful substances present in some workplace settings, such as trichloroethylene and some industrial chemicals, may increase kidney cancer risk.
• Tobacco use – Smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes is one of the most significant risk factors for kidney cancer. Tobacco-related chemicals can damage kidney tissue and contribute to cancer development.
• Obesity – Excess body weight has been linked to an increased risk of many types of cancer, including kidney cancer. Researchers believe obesity may influence hormone levels, inflammation and other biological processes involved in cancer development.

Which risk factors for kidney cancer are modifiable?

Some kidney cancer risk factors are related to lifestyle choices or underlying health conditions that can be managed. Addressing these factors when possible may help lower the risk of developing kidney cancer.

Modifiable risk factors for kidney cancer include:

• Tobacco use – Smoking is one of the leading preventable causes of kidney cancer. Quitting can help reduce the risk.
• Obesity – Achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight may help lower the risk of kidney cancer and support overall health.
• High blood pressure – Managing hypertension through healthy lifestyle habits and appropriate medical treatment may help reduce kidney cancer risk while supporting overall kidney health.
• Occupational chemical exposure – Following workplace safety guidelines and using appropriate protective equipment can help reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances.
• Chronic kidney disease management – Appropriate treatment and ongoing monitoring of chronic kidney disease may help support long-term kidney health and reduce complications.

Which risk factors for kidney cancer are nonmodifiable?

While certain kidney cancer risk factors cannot be changed, understanding them can help identify individuals who could benefit from closer monitoring or earlier evaluation of potential symptoms.

Nonmodifiable risk factors for kidney cancer include:

• Older age – The risk of kidney cancer increases with age.
• Male sex – Men are more likely than women to develop kidney cancer.
• Family history of kidney cancer – Having one or more close relatives with kidney cancer may increase risk due to shared genetic factors and, in some cases, an inherited predisposition to the condition.
• Inherited genetic syndromes – Certain hereditary conditions, such as von Hippel-Lindau disease, hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma and Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, can significantly increase kidney cancer risk.
• Personal history of kidney cancer – Individuals who have previously had kidney cancer may face an increased risk of developing another kidney tumor in the future.

Can kidney cancer be prevented?

There is no known way to completely prevent kidney cancer. However, reducing exposure to known risk factors and maintaining overall kidney health may help lower the likelihood of developing the condition.

Strategies that may help reduce the risk of kidney cancer include:

• Avoid tobacco use – Not smoking is one of the most important steps an individual can take to reduce their kidney cancer risk.
• Maintain a healthy body weight – Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight may help lower kidney cancer risk and support overall health.
• Control blood pressure – Managing hypertension through healthy lifestyle habits and appropriate medical care can help support kidney health.
• Follow workplace safety precautions – Individuals who work with industrial chemicals should follow recommended safety practices to limit exposure when possible.
• Stay physically active – Regular exercise can support healthy weight management, overall wellness and long-term kidney health.
• Manage chronic kidney disease – Seeking appropriate treatment for kidney disease and related health concerns may help preserve kidney function and general health.

Find the help you need for kidney cancer at Moffitt Cancer Center

Understanding the causes and risk factors for kidney cancer can help you make informed decisions about your health and recognize when further evaluation may be needed. As a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Moffitt is committed to advancing kidney cancer research, diagnosis and treatment through innovative science and patient-centered care.

If you would like to learn more about kidney cancer causes and risk factors, you can request an appointment with a specialist in the Urologic Oncology Program at Moffitt by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.