Kidney cancer cases on the rise
About 13,800 people are diagnosed with kidney cancer in the UK each year – that amounts to 38 new cases spotted every day. According to a report by Kidney Cancer UK, cases are expected to increase by 15% by 2040, making it the sixth most common cancer in the UK.
80% of cases spotted by accident
A shocking 80% of kidney cancer cases are spotted by accident, with more than half of patients being diagnosed incidentally while having a scan or test for an unrelated condition. This percentage has increased from previous years, highlighting the need for early detection.
Delays in diagnosis
The report also revealed that 18% of patients waited between one and three months for a kidney cancer diagnosis, while more than a quarter were diagnosed at stage 3, making treatment harder. Any delays in diagnosing the condition could make it harder to treat, leading to about 4,500 deaths per year from the disease.
Call for overhaul of guidance
Kidney Cancer UK is calling for an overhaul of guidance used to recognize and refer patients with suspected kidney cancer. The charity highlighted the importance of updating existing guidelines to reflect the full range of kidney cancer symptoms and improve early recognition to prevent misdiagnosis.
Lack of post-diagnosis support
The report also found that over half of kidney cancer patients received no follow-up from their GP or practice nurse after diagnosis, leaving them without crucial support and information. Additionally, communication and information sharing at all stages of the cancer journey were identified as areas needing improvement.
Urgent need for proactive support
Kidney Cancer UK's CEO emphasized the urgent need for more proactive, patient-centered approaches in kidney cancer support, especially as the incidence of kidney cancer is predicted to continue rising in the coming years. The report underscores the importance of timely information and support for patients facing a cancer diagnosis.
