Generally, cancer is caused by changes experienced in the DNA, namely the development of abnormal cells. With kidney cancer, this abnormal cell growth occurs out of control in the kidney. These cells often cause tissue damage, which can lead to the formation of a tumor in, on, or around the organ. Although many kidney tumors show no signs or only subtle signs, it’s important to know what to look for, as well as what to expect when it comes to kidney cancer medical treatment:

1. Blood in the urine
Many patients experience blood in the urine (or hematuria) inconsistently in the early stages of kidney cancer. Studies by organizations like National Kidney Foundation and St. Jude Children Cancer Hospital indicate that blood in urine occurs in about 40% to 50% of kidney cancer patients. If you notice red, pink, or a rust discoloration in your urine, you should see your doctor immediately.

2. Low back pain on one side
Although back pain is a common ailment among many Americans due to an injury or overuse, it’s also a common sign of kidney cancer patients. The only difference between this symptom is that kidney cancer back pain appears with no explanation (i.e., injury) and it often appears in the later cancer stages. This back pain is linked to a renal cell carcinoma growth, and patients report it feels like a dull ache or a sharp stab on one side of the body, just below the ribs on the back.

3. A mass on the other side of lower back
During the early stages of kidney cancer, the chances of you feeling a lump or mass are low, however, detection of a mass or lump by a patient is typical to the later stages of cancer. An ultrasound or CT scan will offer a better diagnosis.

4. Unexplained fatigue
Kidney cancer, or any type of cancer fatigue, is typically unexplained. Meaning, it’s not due to an obvious lack of sleep or illness. In fact, about 20% of kidney cancer patients experience muscle aches and pains, and an overall malaise that affects both body and mind, which indicates an underlying issue. Seeking quick medical attention is the best thing you can do for unexplained fatigue, as it may prompt an early kidney cancer diagnosis.

5. Loss of appetite and weight loss
As a kidney tumor spreads to other organs (metastasis), many patients lose their appetite for the foods they used to enjoy. Appetite and reduced caloric intake will inevitably cause drastic weight loss.

Kidney cancer is most often treated with surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these medical treatments and health medications. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are occasionally recommended by oncologists to help shrink kidney tumors prior or following surgery. If you experience any of the above signs of kidney cancer, please consult  with a doctor immediately. According to statistics, the 5-year survival rate for kidney cancer patients diagnosed in stage 1 is 81%. If you have the capacity to donate to cancer research, be sure to only donate to established organizations, such as these examples: MD Anderson, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, National Breast Cancer Foundation, and the American Cancer Society, and by giving Tuesday charities.