Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the kidneys, the bean-shaped organs responsible for filtering waste from the blood and producing urine. The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), while Wilms tumor is more common in children.
Kidney cancer develops when abnormal cells in the kidneys grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that may spread to nearby tissues or distant organs. It often goes undetected in early stages as symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed.
Affects kidney function – Can impact the body’s ability to filter waste and produce urine.
Early-stage kidney cancer is often asymptomatic – Symptoms typically appear in later stages.
Most common type is renal cell carcinoma (RCC) – Accounts for about 90% of cases.
Linked to smoking, obesity, and high blood pressure – Major risk factors.
Treatment depends on stage and spread – Surgery is often the primary treatment.
The exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown, but several factors increase the risk:
Smoking – Significantly increases the risk.
Obesity – Excess body weight can lead to hormonal changes that promote cancer growth.
High blood pressure (hypertension) – May damage kidney cells over time.
Genetic predisposition – Family history of kidney cancer raises the risk.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) – Long-term kidney problems may lead to cancer.
Exposure to harmful chemicals – Such as asbestos and cadmium.
Kidney cancer symptoms often appear in later stages.
Common Symptoms:
Blood in the urine (hematuria) – A key warning sign.
Persistent lower back or side pain – Usually not caused by an injury.
Unexplained weight loss – Can indicate advanced disease.
Fatigue – Common with many cancers.
Fever – Especially if persistent and unexplained.
Swelling in the legs or ankles – Can occur if kidney function is impaired.
Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) – The most common type, arising from the kidney’s lining.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC) – Starts in the renal pelvis and behaves like bladder cancer.
Wilms Tumor – A rare kidney cancer affecting children.
Renal Sarcoma – A rare type affecting the connective tissues of the kidney.
Early detection improves treatment success. Common diagnostic tests include:
Physical examination – Checking for lumps, pain, or swelling.
Urine test (urinalysis) – Detects blood or abnormal cells in urine.
Blood tests – Evaluates kidney function.
Imaging tests (CT, MRI, Ultrasound) – Identifies tumors and their spread.
Biopsy – A sample of kidney tissue is tested for cancer cells.
Surgery
Partial nephrectomy – Removes only the tumor, preserving kidney function.
Radical nephrectomy – Removes the entire kidney and nearby tissues.
Targeted Therapy
Uses drugs that attack cancer-specific pathways, slowing tumor growth.
Immunotherapy
Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.
Radiation Therapy
Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Rarely used for kidney cancer but may be an option in advanced cases.
Survival rates depend on the stage of cancer at diagnosis:
Localized kidney cancer (confined to the kidney) – 5-year survival rate of 93%.
Regional spread (to nearby tissues/lymph nodes) – Survival rate drops to 70%.
Distant spread (metastatic cancer) – Survival rate falls to 13%.
Tumor size and location – Smaller, contained tumors have better outcomes.
Response to treatment – Some cancers are more responsive to therapy.
Overall health – Patients with better kidney function recover faster.
While kidney cancer cannot always be prevented, these steps can reduce the risk:
Quit smoking – Lowers the chances of kidney and other cancers.
Maintain a healthy weight – Obesity is a major risk factor.
Control blood pressure – Reduces kidney damage over time.
Stay hydrated – Good kidney function supports overall health.
Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals – Especially in workplace environments.
Coping with kidney cancer involves lifestyle adjustments, medical follow-ups, and emotional support.
Coping Strategies:
Regular check-ups – Ensures early detection of recurrence.
Dietary changes – Healthy eating supports kidney function.
Physical activity – Helps maintain overall health and recovery.
Emotional support – Counseling or support groups help cope with stress.