Increased cancer risk in kidney transplant patients in Scotland: a national registry linkage study

Cancer is a major contributor to morbidity following kidney transplantation. This study examines the incidence of cancer in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) in Scotland, compares this to the general population, and identifies factors associated with cancer development.

This nationwide cohort study utilised data from the Scottish Renal Registry, Scottish Cancer Registry and hospitalisation records. Standardised incidence rate ratios (SIRs) compared cancer incidence to the general population. Cox proportional hazards models identified factors associated with post-transplant cancer.

Between 1997-2021, 4033 patients ≥18 years received a first kidney transplant. 770 developed cancer versus 194 expected (SIR 3.9, 95% CI 3.7-4.2). Site-specific SIRs were greatest for non-melanomatous skin cancer, lymphoma and kidney cancer. Cancer incidence was 7-times that of the general population in kidney transplant recipient (KTR) under 40, the increased incidence fell to 3-times for KTRs over 60. Consistent differences in the incidence of the most common cancers in the general population (colorectal, lung breast, prostate) were not detected in this population.

There is an increased risk of cancer in KTRs, particularly younger individuals. Non-melanomatous skin cancers remain the most frequent cancer in a population with low natural UV exposure. Tailored counselling and surveillance strategies are needed to improve patient outcomes.