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Kidney Cancer
Kidney Cancer- A guide to Symptoms, Risks, Prevention and Cure
Kidney Cancer- Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Cure
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, begins in the kidneys — two bean-shaped organs that filter waste from the blood. It often develops silently, without symptoms in the early stages, and is sometimes discovered by chance during scans for other health issues.
As a medical oncologist, I’ve seen how outcomes improve significantly when kidney cancer is found early. Advances in surgery, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy are transforming treatment, even in advanced stages.
By educating yourself about kidney cancer risk factors and warning signs, you are taking an important step toward protecting your health.
What is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer occurs when cells in the kidney grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. If left untreated, the tumor can spread to nearby tissues and other parts of the body. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which makes up about 9 out of 10 cases.
Types of Kidney Cancer
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): Most common type; develops in the kidney’s filtering system.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma: Begins in the lining of the kidney pelvis, where urine collects.
Wilms Tumor: A rare kidney cancer found almost exclusively in children.
Renal Sarcoma: Extremely rare; starts in the blood vessels or connective tissue of the kidney.
Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
In early stages, kidney cancer may not cause symptoms. When symptoms appear, they may include:
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Persistent pain in the back or side
A lump or mass in the kidney area
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Fever not caused by infection
Swelling in the ankles or legs
Risk Factors for Kidney Cancer
Factors that increase the risk of developing kidney cancer include:
Smoking
Obesity
High blood pressure
Family history of kidney cancer
Inherited genetic conditions (e.g., von Hippel–Lindau disease)
Long-term dialysis treatment
Exposure to harmful chemicals such as asbestos, cadmium, or certain herbicides
Kidney Cancer Screening
There are no standard screening tests for kidney cancer in the general population. However, kidney tumors are often found incidentally during imaging tests (like ultrasound or CT scans) done for other reasons. People with a strong family history or genetic risk may benefit from regular check-ups and imaging.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if you notice:
Blood in urine that persists
A lump in the side or lower back
Persistent flank or back pain
Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or fever
Treatment for Kidney Cancer
Treatment depends on the type, size, and stage of the cancer as well as overall health:
Surgery (nephrectomy): Main treatment; can be partial (removing part of kidney) or radical (removing the whole kidney).
Targeted therapy: Drugs that block cancer cell growth signals.
Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: Sometimes used for symptom relief, not usually as primary treatment.
Active surveillance: In small, slow-growing tumors, careful monitoring may be advised before starting treatment.
Some Facts vs Myths about Kidney Cancer
Myth: Kidney cancer always causes pain.
Fact: Many cases are painless in early stages and found incidentally.Myth: Removing one kidney always causes severe health problems.
Fact: Most people can live a normal, healthy life with one kidney.Myth: Only older adults get kidney cancer.
Fact: While more common in adults over 50, it can occur at any age.Myth: Blood in urine is always due to infection or stones.
Fact: It can be an important sign of kidney cancer and should not be ignored.
