The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs (fist-sized), located in the lower abdomen on either side of the spine. The kidneys are mainly responsible for removing waste materials and fluids from blood via the urine. Kidney cancer, or renal cancer, occurs when kidney cells become malignant and grow at abnormal and excessive rates. Often this abnormal cell growth leads to the development of a tumor. The majority of renal cancers grow in the lining of tiny tubes (or tubules) within the kidney in a specific type of cancer known as renal cell carcinoma.
Kidney cancer is considered among the top ten most common cancers. Renal cancer tends to mainly strike male patients over the age of 50-years old. However, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of renal cancer, including:
- Family history of kidney cancer
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Obesity
Thankfully, most cases of kidney cancer can be successfully treated if found early before they metastasize (or spread to other bodily organs). The earliest warning signs of kidney cancer include:
1. Unexplained weight loss
Patients with cancer often experience rapid weight loss and a sudden loss of appetite. With kidney cancer, this full feeling and lack of appetite can occur due to the growth of an abdominal mass.
2. Fatigue
Fatigue and a general feeling of malaise (or poor health) can often occur in the early stages of kidney cancer. This fatigue can mimic the onset of a flu with general tiredness, achiness, and fever, and even night sweats.
3. Swelling and pain
Many patients report pain or the development of a swollen lump in your kidney area. This growth and tenderness can occur on either side of the body, below the ribcage. Pain from renal cancer can also occur in the flank area, or on either side of the body between the upper abdomen and the back.
4. Blood in urine
The most telltale symptom of kidney cancer is the presence of blood in the urine, or haematuria, in about 50% of all renal cancer patients. The blood can be trace amounts and can come and go. If you notice blood in your urine, see a doctor immediately, as it can indicate kidney stones, kidney cancer, enlarged prostate, or a kidney infection.
5. Anemia
Anemia occurs when the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin. It will occur when the organs are not getting enough oxygen to function properly and accompany symptoms of extreme fatigue.
