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Kidney Cancer
Cancer that originates in the kidneys. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma.
Kidney Cancer Overview
Kidneys are blood-filtering organs. Kidney cancer is often detected incidentally during imaging tests for other reasons, as early symptoms can be subtle.
Frequent Symptoms
- Blood in the urine (may look pink, red, or cola-colored).
- Persistent pain in the back or side, below the ribs.
- A palpable mass or lump in the abdomen or flank.
- Loss of appetite and weight.
- Extreme fatigue and anemia.
- Intermittent fever not caused by infection.
Therapeutic Options
Surgery is the main treatment for most kidney cancers.
Nephrectomy (Partial or Radical)
Removal of the tumor or the entire affected kidney.
Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy
Frequently used for advanced or metastatic kidney cancer.
Sources and medical information
Prepared by Tutti Cancer Warriors
Sources checked: 28 July 2026
This page provides general educational information. It does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Kidney cancer may cause no signs or symptoms in its early stages. Contact a healthcare professional about blood in the urine, persistent pain in the side or back, a lump in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or fever. Prognosis varies by cancer type, stage, age, overall health and treatment response. NCI SEER reports 79.2% five-year relative survival in the United States for kidney and renal pelvis cancer, all stages combined, for 2016–2022; this population statistic cannot predict an individual outcome.
Official sources
Key Fact
443KNew kidney cancer cases globally in 2024 (IARC estimate)
79.2%Five-year relative survival in the US, all stages combined, 2016–2022 (NCI SEER)