Epidemiology and Prevention of Renal Cell Carcinoma

Simple Summary The incidence of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) rises globally with the highest rates in developed countries. This indicates not only the impact of advanced imaging, but also an increased prevalence of modifiable risk factors such as smoking, obesity, and hypertension. This review will summarize the epidemiology and genetic variation of RCC, primary prevention-involving risk factors, and secondary prevention through early detection with a focus on biomarkers. With 400,000 diagnosed and 180,000 deaths in 2020, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) accounts for 2.4% of all cancer diagnoses worldwide. The highest disease burden developed countries, primarily in Europe and North America. Incidence is projected to increase in the future as more countries shift to Western lifestyles. Risk factors for RCC include fixed factors such as gender, age, and hereditary diseases, as well as intervening factors such as smoking, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, diet and alcohol, and occupational exposure. Intervening factors in primary prevention, understanding of congenital risk factors and the establishment of early diagnostic tools are important for RCC. This review will discuss RCC epidemiology, risk factors, and biomarkers involved in reducing incidence and improving survival.