Kidney Cancer: Early Warning Signs and Treatment Options

Cancer cells can exist in any organ, system, or tissue type within the human body. As the name suggests, kidney cancer specifically targets the kidneys. Approximately 73,000 new cases of this common cancer type were diagnosed in 2019 according to statistics gathered by the American Cancer Society¹.

Although it is possible to get this disease at any age, it is much more common for people in their 60s and above. It is considered rare for people in their 30s and below.

Stage II Kidney Cancer

When cancer cells spread to the circulatory or lymphatic systems, physicians may recommend surgery to remove the affected parts and lymph nodes.

Stage III Kidney Cancer

When cancer cells have spread into additional lymph nodes or veins and covers a larger area than before, you may still get surgery with additional medications or even chemotherapy as directed by your physician.

Stage IV Kidney Cancer

Additional spread of cancer cells beyond the kidneys and nearby blood vessels and lymph nodes. At this point, other organs or body systems may be affected. Treatment depends on where the cancer has spread, your age, and overall health.

Get your check up regularly

In order to catch kidney cancer as soon as possible in Stage I, it is essential that you speak with your physician about any potential signs or symptoms that you notice. Attend all regular physical examinations and wellness checkups. The earlier you catch this or any other type of cancer, the better your long-term prognosis is. As kidney cancer affects senior citizens more than anyone else, these recommendations are especially important for those 60 years old and up.

[1] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/kidney-cancer/about/key-statistics.html

[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352664

[3]  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352669

The Earliest Signs of Possible Kidney Cancer

In the very beginning, there are very few signs or symptoms that kidney cancer may be developing². This may feed into the statistics that show mostly older people get the diagnosis. However, some of the unusual symptoms listed below can't give you an idea that it is time to make an appointment with your physician for a frank discussion about the possibility.

• Pain in your lower back or sides
• An unusual lump on your lower back or sides
• Lack of appetite and unexpected weight loss
• Blood in your urine
• Fever and other signs of infection without accompanying illness
• Anemia

Since treatments for all types of cancers are highly specific to the individual and the manifestation of the cancer itself³, you can get a better picture of a treatment plan if you talk to your physician directly. This general information only presents the tip of the iceberg of possibilities. Also, it is important to note that cancer treatments change all the time, and current or future research may introduce a new choice for patients.

Stage I Kidney Cancer

When all the cancer cells still remain in the kidneys themselves, physicians may recommend simple observation without any strenuous treatment whatsoever.

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