What is kidney cancer?
Kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma and related tumours) starts in the kidney tissue. Some tumours are found early on scans; others present with blood in urine or flank pain. Care may include surgery, ablation, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy.
Causes
Exact causes vary. Smoking, long-term dialysis, certain inherited syndromes, and prior radiation can contribute. Many cases have no single identifiable trigger.
Risk factors
Risk factors include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, workplace chemical exposure, family history of kidney cancer, and acquired cystic kidney disease.
Importance of early diagnosis
Tumours found before they spread are more often removable with surgery and may need less aggressive systemic therapy. Early work-up after blood in urine or an incidental scan finding matters.