Smoking’s Silent Threat: Kidneys at Risk
New research highlights the hidden dangers of smoking, revealing that the kidneys and urinary tract suffer silently alongside the lungs. This article explores the critical link between smoking and kidney health, urging individuals to prioritize their renal well-being.
The Smoking-Kidney Connection
A 2022 study by the National Center for Biotechnology established a correlation: smoking level increases with decreased kidney function. The study’s subgroup analysis suggests that early smoking cessation could significantly reduce chronic kidney diseases, particularly among young people. Toxic chemicals from cigarettes circulate through the body via blood and pass through the kidneys.
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and upper tract urothelial cancer (UTUC)—two serious but often overlooked consequences of lighting up #health #smoking
— World Today News (@worldtodaynews) February 19, 2025
“If people keep smoking for a while, it can destroy the nephrons and lead to the onset of cancer. This doubles the chances of smokers developing kidney carcinoma than non-smokers,”
—Dr. Sachin Arakere Nataraj, Program Director & Head – Aster Centre for Uro-Oncology, Robotic Surgery and Men’s Health, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer by up to 50% (CDC, 2024). This underscores the critical need for prevention.
Quitting for Kidney Health
Immediately stopping smoking allows the body to start healing, preserving kidney health, and lowering cancer risks. Maintaining hydration, staying active, checking blood pressure regularly, and eating a healthy diet also improve kidney health. Kidney cancer symptoms are often subtle, making caution and smoking cessation even more essential.
Ex-smokers still face elevated risks compared to non-smokers, although the risks decline over time. Quitting smoking is the most effective way to decrease the risk. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing blood pressure are vital steps to take.