Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a type of cancer that originate in the cells of the kidney. It is a serious illness that affects more than 65,000 people in the United States every year. While it is more common among men, women can get it as well.

When kidney cancer is diagnosed early, it is usually treatable and has a better chance of being cured. Early symptoms of kidney cancer may include blood in the urine, abdominal or flank pain, and an unexplained mass that can be felt in the abdomen. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, and fever.

Medical imaging such as computerized tomography (CT) scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds are used to diagnose kidney cancer. The images can help detect tumors or any abnormalities in the kidneys. For confirmation, a biopsy may be performed to obtain a sample of the tissue.

When kidney cancer has been diagnosed, treatment options vary depending on its severity. Surgery is often the first line of treatment for most kidney cancer types. Surgery is used to remove the affected kidney or the tumor itself. For more advanced cases of kidney cancer, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies may be applied. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be required.

It is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits to help reduce the risk of kidney cancer. Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and reduce/quit smoking and drinking can help. Additionally, regularly monitor for any changes and get routine checkups to make sure the kidneys are healthy.

Kidney cancer is a serious illness, but being aware of its symptoms and treatments can help people detect and fight them effectively. If diagnosed and treated in the early stages, the chances of successful treatment and recovery are much higher.