Experts warn that recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) may indicate more than just a simple infection; they could be an early warning sign of kidney cancer, according to a report by the Times of India.

Kidney cancer is often called the “silent disease” because it can develop without noticeable symptoms, making early detection critical for successful treatment. While most UTIs are harmless, recurrent infections may sometimes mask serious kidney problems.

Nearly 4 out of 5 kidney cancer cases are discovered incidentally during unrelated medical examinations, highlighting the importance of paying attention to urinary symptoms. Consulting a doctor promptly can ensure early diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes.

According to Cancer Research UK, kidney cancer causes about 4,700 deaths annually in the UK, ranking it as the 13th leading cause of cancer-related death. Unlike other cancers that are easier to detect through routine screening, kidney cancer often develops without clear symptoms. This silent progression means many patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, limiting treatment options.

A recent report from the UK Kidney Cancer Foundation states that 4 out of 5 cases are found incidentally, often during examinations for unrelated conditions.

Alarmingly, 37% of patients reported no symptoms at all, reinforcing kidney cancer’s reputation as a “silent disease.” Recurrent UTIs may not only indicate ongoing bladder issues but could also serve as an early warning sign of kidney cancer, especially renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

An important study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that individuals with a history of doctor-diagnosed UTIs have a significantly higher risk of developing renal cell carcinoma.

The UK Kidney Cancer Center emphasizes the importance of recognizing early warning signs, including:

• Blood in the urine (hematuria), the most important warning sign of kidney cancer, which may appear as dark red, brown, pinkish urine, or small blood spots on toilet paper.
• Recurrent UTIs that may hide serious kidney conditions.
• Common UTI symptoms such as burning during urination, frequent urge to urinate, dark or foul-smelling urine.
• Persistent pain in the side, back, or under the ribs.
• Fatigue, general discomfort, rapid unexplained weight loss, lumps or swelling in the abdomen or flank.
• Fever, excessive sweating, loss of appetite.

The report also highlights risk factors that can aid early detection of kidney cancer, including smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and family history of kidney cancer.

Even without these risk factors, it is crucial to consult your doctor immediately if you notice blood in your urine or recurrent UTIs, as early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes.

If you experience any combination of blood in urine, persistent pain, or recurrent urinary infections, seek medical care promptly and undergo diagnostic tests to rule out or detect kidney cancer early.