Chennai: Obesity may increase the chances of developing kidney cancers, as body produces higher levels of growth factors. This results in stimulation of tumor cells which multiply rapidly, according to NephroPlus Dialysis Centre at Aysha Hospital medical director, Dr V Balaraman.
World Kidney Day is observed today (12 March) every year and the theme for this year is ‘Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere’ which aims at preventing to detection and equitable access to care.
Citing a study, Balaraman said, as much as 17 per cent and 26 per cent of all kidney cancers in men and women respectively, were due to increased body weight. Further, obesity decreases body’s immunity; thereby having higher chance of acquiring infections as well, he said in a press release.
He further said most people with increased body weight usually do not develop a kidney disease; which brings to a conclusion that, obesity cannot alone produce kidney damage, but if they are suffering with other co-morbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, they will most likely develop a kidney disease, in the form of kidney failure, stones or kidney cancers.
About prevention, Balaraman said steps must be taken to keep body weight within the normal range, diabetes and blood pressure in control. These three steps will go a long way in maintaining a good and healthy lifestyle. Medications and other advice given by the doctor must be followed religiously, so that one need not suffer from any kidney disease, he said.