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Asbestos & Kidney Cancer

According to the National Kidney Foundation, about 51,000 adults in the United States are diagnosed with kidney cancer each year. There are several types of kidney cancer that affect people at all ages. Your risk of developing kidney cancer depends on a number of factors; one factor that can increase your risk for kidney cancer is exposure to asbestos.

  1. Features

    • Asbestos is a group of minerals that naturally take the form of fibers. Asbestos is resistant to heat, fire and chemicals and does not conduct electricity. Because of these attributes, asbestos has been used in building foundations, insulation, roofing, ceiling and floor tiles and paints. Shipbuilders may use asbestos to insulate boilers and hot water tanks. Automakers use asbestos in vehicle brake pads. You may be exposed to more asbestos than you realize.

    Health Hazards

    • When asbestos is disturbed, it releases tiny fibers. Once airborne, these fibers are breathed in and get trapped in your lungs. These fibers can remain in your lungs for a long period of time. From your lungs, these fibers can break loose and be spread to your kidneys. According to the National Cancer Institute, asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen, or a substance that has been proved to cause cancer. As asbestos interacts with your kidneys, it can cause kidney cells to mutate and become cancerous.

    Risk Factors

    • Your risk of developing kidney cancer from asbestos depends on the extent of your exposure. Risk is based on the dose you are exposed to, the duration of exposure, the size shape and chemical makeup of the asbestos, and the source of the asbestos. Individual risk factors such as obesity, smoking and a family history of kidney cancer also affect your risk of developing cancer.

    Signs of Cancer

    • Signs of kidney cancer include blood in your urine, a lump or mass in the area near your kidneys, constant pain in your back, anemia and high blood pressure. These symptoms could also indicate other noncancerous conditions. See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

    Prevention

    • The best way to lower your risk for kidney cancer due to asbestos is to limit your exposure. When working with products that contain asbestos wear protective gear to avoid inhaling the asbestos. Wear a face mask, use gloves and be sure there is proper ventilation. Try to use paints and building material that do not contain asbestos. Replace old building materials with asbestos with newer products that are made without asbestos.

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