Kidney Cancer
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Kidney cancer starts when cells in the kidney grow out of control and form a lump or tumour. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs on either side of your spine, just below your ribs. They filter your blood and make urine. Most kidney cancers begin in the small tubes inside the kidney that filter blood.
Key facts
- Kidney cancer often grows without causing pain at first, so it may be found during a scan for another reason.
- The most common type is renal cell carcinoma, which starts in the kidney's filtering units.
- If found early, kidney cancer is often highly treatable.
It is not one of the most common cancers, but it is not rare either. Around 13,000 people are diagnosed with kidney cancer each year in the UK.
Kidney cancer affects people of any age, but it is most often diagnosed in adults over 60. Men are slightly more likely to develop it than women.
Symptoms
- Call your local emergency number (such as 999 in the UK) if you pass a very large amount of blood in your urine, have sudden severe pain in your side, or feel extremely unwell with a high fever and chills.
- ⚠Contact your GP or local health service on the same day if you see blood in your urine for the first time, even if it goes away, or if you have a painful swelling in your side.
Common symptoms
- Blood in the urine (wee) – this may look pink, red, or cola-coloured
- A lump or swelling in your side or lower back
- A dull ache or pain in your side or back that does not go away
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Losing weight without trying
- A fever that comes and goes, or night sweats
Symptoms in children
- Kidney cancer in children is very rare. It may cause a noticeable lump in the tummy, blood in the urine, or tummy pain.
Symptoms in older adults
- In older adults, symptoms may be less clear and can include poor appetite, unexplained tiredness, and weight loss. Sometimes it is found during tests for other health problems.
Causes
Main causes
- The exact cause is not known. Kidney cancer happens when the DNA inside a kidney cell changes, causing the cell to grow and multiply too quickly. These changes can be inherited or happen over time.
- Smoking and being overweight increase the risk.
Risk factors
- Smoking
- Being overweight or obese
- High blood pressure
- A family history of kidney cancer
- Some inherited conditions, such as von Hippel-Lindau disease
- Long-term kidney dialysis
- Being over 60
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- See a GP or local same-day clinic if you notice blood in your urine, even if it is only once, or if you have a lump in your abdomen or persistent pain in your side.
Book a routine appointment if:
- Make an appointment to see your doctor if you have unexplained tiredness, unintentional weight loss, or a fever that does not go away.
Diagnosis
To diagnose kidney cancer, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, examine you, and usually arrange tests.
Tests that may be done
- Urine test to check for blood or infection
- Blood tests to check how well your kidneys are working
- Ultrasound scan – a painless test using sound waves to look at your kidneys
- CT scan or MRI scan – detailed scans that give a clearer picture of the kidneys
- A biopsy – a small sample of tissue taken with a needle to check for cancer cells (not always needed before surgery)
What to expect at your appointment
If the tests show a possible kidney cancer, you will usually be referred to a specialist team. They will talk you through the results and the next steps. You may need further scans to see if the cancer has spread. This can be an anxious time, but remember that your team will support you.
Treatment
Treatment for kidney cancer depends on the type, size, and stage of the cancer, your age, and your overall health. The aim may be to cure the cancer or to control it and help you live well.
Self-care at home
- Take time to rest and accept help from friends and family
- Stay as active as you feel able to – even short walks can help
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor advises otherwise
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol, as these can harm your health
- Tell your doctor about any new symptoms or side effects
Medical treatments
Treatment approaches may include surgery to remove part or all of the affected kidney. Other options include freezing or heating the tumour, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. These help the body’s immune system fight the cancer or block the signals that make cancer cells grow. Your cancer team will explain which treatments are suitable for you.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is the most common treatment for early kidney cancer. It may involve removing only the tumour or the whole kidney. Many people live well with one remaining healthy kidney.
Living with this condition
Living with kidney cancer and its treatment can be challenging. You may feel tired, and your daily routine may change. Take each day as it comes, communicate openly with your care team, and ask for help if you need it.
Lifestyle tips
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough water, unless your doctor has told you otherwise
- Keep a gentle exercise routine, like walking or stretching
- Prioritise rest and listen to your body
- Seek emotional support from friends, family, or a counsellor
Diet and exercise
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Some treatments can affect your appetite, so eat little and often if you need to. Build up your activity gradually, but always check with your medical team before starting a new exercise programme.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis can bring up a lot of different emotions, such as fear, sadness, anger, or anxiety. These feelings are normal. It can help to talk about them. If you are struggling, speak to your GP or cancer team about support services.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent kidney cancer, but you can reduce your risk by not smoking, keeping a healthy weight, managing blood pressure, and eating well.
Complications
If left untreated
- The cancer may grow larger and spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, bones, or lymph nodes.
- Kidney function may worsen over time.
- Bleeding from the tumour into the urine can cause pain or block the flow of urine.
Long-term outlook
The outlook for kidney cancer is improving all the time. Many kidney cancers are found early, and treatment can often cure the disease. Even when the cancer is advanced, newer treatments can help control it for many years, allowing people to live well. Your doctor can give you a clearer idea of what to expect based on your own situation.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.