Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the kidneys—two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, responsible for filtering waste from the blood and producing urine.

In adults, the most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Less common types can occur, and in children, a distinct kidney cancer known as Wilms’ tumor is more common.

The number of diagnosed kidney cancers has increased over recent years, partly because imaging tests such as CT scans are used more frequently, leading to the incidental detection of small tumors. Many kidney cancers are discovered at an early stage, when they remain confined to the kidney and are highly treatable.

Symptoms

Kidney cancer often causes no symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

  • Blood in urine (pink, red, or cola-colored)
  • Persistent back or side pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Fever

Causes

The exact cause of kidney cancer is not fully understood. Kidney cancer begins when certain cells in the kidney develop DNA mutations that cause uncontrolled growth. As these abnormal cells multiply, they form tumors that may grow within or beyond the kidney. Some of these cells may also spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase the risk of kidney cancer include:

  • Older age: Risk rises with age.
  • Smoking: Smokers have a higher risk; quitting lowers that risk over time.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight is linked to a higher risk.
  • High blood pressure: Hypertension increases kidney cancer risk.
  • Kidney failure treatment: Long-term dialysis increases risk.
  • Inherited syndromes: Certain genetic conditions increase risk, such as:
    • Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease
    • Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome
    • Tuberous sclerosis complex
    • Hereditary papillary renal cell carcinoma
    • Familial renal cancer

Prevention

While not all kidney cancers are preventable, several steps may help lower your risk:

  • Quit smoking
    • If you smoke, consider stopping. Your doctor can help you explore support programs, medications, and nicotine replacement therapies.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
    • Adopt balanced eating and regular physical activity. If you’re overweight, work with your doctor to create a safe and sustainable weight-loss plan.
  • Control high blood pressure
    • Regular monitoring, lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, weight control), and if needed, medications can help keep blood pressure within a healthy range.