The exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown in many cases. However, several risk factors have been identified that increase the likelihood of developing this cancer, including:
- Smoking: Smoking is the most significant risk factor for kidney cancer.
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases the risk of developing the disease.
- Family history: Having a family member with kidney cancer increases the risk.
- High blood pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage the kidneys and increase the risk of cancer.
- Certain genetic disorders: Conditions such as von Hippel-Lindau syndrome and hereditary leiomyomatosis renal cell carcinoma increase the risk.
- Exposure to certain chemicals: Working with chemicals such as asbestos, cadmium, and trichloroethylene may increase the risk.
- Chronic kidney disease: People with advanced chronic kidney disease have an increased risk of developing kidney cancer.
It’s important to note that not everyone with these risk factors will develop kidney cancer. However, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, managing blood pressure, and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals can help reduce the risk.
This study analyzed the data for kidney cancer mortality from 2019 to 2023 for each U.S. state via the CDC Cancer Statistics database. The mortality rates per 100,000 residents were calculated to identify the states where Americans are most at risk of dying from the disease.
State Highlights:
- West Virginia has the highest kidney cancer mortality rate in the U.S., with 31 deaths per 100,000 residents between 2019 and 2023.
- South Dakota, with 30, and Oklahoma, with 28.7 deaths per 100,000 residents between 2019 and 2023, rank second and third for mortality rates, respectively.
- Utah reported the lowest number of deaths from the disease, with 13 deaths per 100,000 residents between 2019 and 2023.
West Virginia leads the nation in kidney cancer mortality rate, with 31 deaths per 100,000 residents, which is 34.8% higher than the national average of 23 deaths per 100,000. Between 2019 and 2023, the Mountain State, with a population of approximately 1.78 million, recorded 552 deaths from the disease.
South Dakota ranks second with 30 deaths per 100,000 residents, 30.4% higher than the national average of 23. From 2019 to 2023, the Mount Rushmore State, home to nearly 899,000 residents, experienced 270 deaths related to kidney cancer.
Oklahoma ranks third with 28.7 deaths per 100,000 residents, which is about 24.8% higher than the national average of 23. Between 2019 and 2023, the Sooner State, with a population of approximately 4 million, saw 1,148 deaths caused by kidney cancer.
Louisiana takes the fourth position with 27.8 kidney cancer deaths per 100,000 residents, surpassing the national average of 23 by 21%. With a population of approximately 4.6 million, the Pelican State reported a total of 1,284 kidney cancer deaths during 2019–2023.
Kentucky ranks fifth with 27.7 deaths per 100,000 residents, 20.4% higher than the national average of 23. The Bluegrass State, home to roughly 4.5 million residents, experienced 1,247 deaths between 2019 and 2023.
Arkansas (6th) documented 27.2 kidney cancer deaths per 100,000 residents, followed by Maine (7th) and Mississippi (8th), both at 26.9 deaths per 100,000 residents. Missouri (9th) and Montana (10th) tied at 26.8 kidney cancer deaths per 100,000 residents.
Table for Extended Results
Looking at the study, a spokesperson commented:
“The study highlights that states such as West Virginia, South Dakota, and Oklahoma reported some of the highest kidney cancer mortality rates in the U.S.”
“These high rates indicate disparities in access to early detection, healthcare quality, and public health resources. The burden of kidney cancer in these areas is not just a medical issue. It’s a public health concern that demands targeted interventions.”
“Addressing these disparities requires a multi-layered approach, including improving education on symptoms, investing in early screening programs, and ensuring equitable healthcare access across all demographics. While national averages offer a benchmark, impactful policy changes must be made at the state-level variations in mortality.”
Methodology
The research analyzed the data for kidney cancer mortality cases from 2019 to 2023 for each U.S. state via the CDC Cancer Statistics database. The mortality rates per 100,000 residents were calculated to identify the states where Americans are most at risk of dying from kidney cancer.
Kidney Cancer Survival Rate
The five-year survival rate for kidney cancer is generally around 75%, but this varies significantly based on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. Early-stage kidney cancer, when it’s localized, has a much higher survival rate, while advanced stages with distant metastasis have significantly lower survival rates.
- Localized Kidney Cancer (Stage I): The five-year survival rate is approximately 93%.
- Regional Kidney Cancer (Stage II & III): The five-year survival rate is around 75% for Stage II and 53% for Stage III.
- Distant Kidney Cancer (Stage IV): The five-year survival rate for Stage IV is much lower, around 8% to 18%, as the cancer has spread to distant organs.
Factors Affecting Survival
- Stage of Cancer: As mentioned above, the stage at diagnosis is the most crucial factor.
- Type of Kidney Cancer: Different types of kidney cancer, like papillary and chromophobe RCC, tend to have better prognoses compared to other types.
- Individual Patient Factors: Age, overall health, and response to treatment can also influence survival.
- Treatment Advances: Newer treatments, like targeted therapies and immunotherapy, have improved survival rates, especially for advanced cases.
Important Considerations
Survival rates are based on historical data and may not reflect current treatment advancements. Survival rates are population statistics and do not predict individual outcomes. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving survival.
For personalized information, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your specific situation and provide accurate survival estimates based on your individual circumstances and the stage of your cancer.
This article was created at the WHN News Desk using some of the information that was provided by Nicholas Romano on behalf of the Las Vegas-based injury law firm Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
