Kidney Cancer

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Kidney cancer is a cancer that starts in the kidneys. Cancer starts when cells in the body begin to grow out of control. Cells in nearly any part of the body can become cancer, and can spread to other areas of the body.

Kidney cancer cells can spread by breaking away from the kidney tumor. They can travel through lymph vessels to nearby lymph nodes

They can also spread through blood vessels to the lungs

bones, or liver. After spreading, kidney cancer cells may attach to other tissues and grow to form new tumors that may damage those tissues.

Symptoms of kidney cancer

• blood in your pee: you may notice your pee is darker than normal or reddish in colour
• a persistent pain in your lower back or side, just below your ribs
• a lump or swelling in your side (although kidney cancer is often too small to feel)

Smoking: Smoking tobacco is an important risk factor for kidney cancer. People who smoke have a higher risk than nonsmokers. The risk is higher for those who smoke more cigarettes or for a long time.

High blood pressure: Having high blood pressure may increase the risk of kidney cancer.

Family history of kidney cancer: People with a family member who had kidney cancer have a slightly increased risk of the disease. Also, certain conditions that run in families can increase the risk of kidney cancer.