A medical doctor has shared crucial information about kidney cancer after the death of Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo. Dr Jane Dire took to Facebook to educate the public on common causes of kidney cancer that many people often overlook. Her post came after reports confirmed that the 40-year-old actor died on May 11, 2026, following a battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer. Below are six causes of kidney cancer listed by the doctor.
1. Smoking
According to Dr Jane Dire, smoking is one of the major causes of kidney cancer. She explained that harmful chemicals from cigarettes do not only affect the lungs but also pass through the kidneys. Constant exposure to those chemicals can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer over time. She advised smokers to take their kidney health seriously and consider quitting smoking to reduce health risks.
2. Untreated High Blood Pressure
The medical doctor also identified untreated high blood pressure as another major risk factor. Persistent high blood pressure can damage kidney tissues and lead to abnormal cell growth. She warned that many people ignore hypertension because it often develops silently without obvious symptoms. The doctor encouraged regular medical checkups to help detect and manage blood pressure early.
3. Obesity
Dr Jane Dire listed obesity among the conditions linked to kidney cancer. Excess body weight affects hormone balance and places additional stress on the kidneys. This condition may increase the chances of cancer developing in the body. The doctor advised people to maintain healthy lifestyles through proper diet and regular exercise.
4. Overuse of Painkillers
Frequent misuse of certain pain medications was also listed among the causes of kidney cancer. Constant overuse of painkillers can slowly damage the kidneys over time. She warned Nigerians against self-medication and excessive dependence on pain-relief drugs without medical supervision. Long-term kidney damage could eventually contribute to cancer development.
5. Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Another cause mentioned by the doctor was regular exposure to toxic chemicals. People who work around pesticides, industrial solvents, and heavy metals without proper protection may damage their kidneys. The doctor advised workers in risky environments to use safety equipment and take preventive measures seriously. Continuous exposure to harmful substances could negatively affect kidney health.
6. Ignoring Family History
Dr Jane Dire also warned that family history should not be ignored. Individuals whose close relatives have suffered kidney cancer or kidney disease may face higher risks themselves. She encouraged such individuals to go for regular medical examinations and early screening. Early detection remains one of the best ways to improve treatment outcomes.
Warning Signs of Kidney Cancer
Aside from listing possible causes, the doctor also mentioned warning signs to watch for. Symptoms may include blood in urine, constant back or side pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and swelling in the legs or ankles. She urged Nigerians to pay closer attention to their kidney health and seek medical help when unusual symptoms appear.
