The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs that filter blood to remove impurities and excess minerals and water to produce urine. Kidney cancer, also called renal cancer, is among the 10 most common cancers in adults, with nearly 82,000 new cases estimated this year. Diagnosing kidney cancer involves a series of blood and urine tests as well as imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans, an ultrasound or X-rays. Biopsies may also be done. The following resources offer support, education and more.
American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society offers a wealth of information about kidney cancer—from prevention to diagnosis to treatment to survival—via articles, quizzes, videos and diagrams. Its site provides updates on current research and the latest statistics—for example, kidney cancer is twice as common among men than women, and it’s more common among Black Americans, Alaska Natives and American Indians.
Cancer.net
Published by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), Cancer.net features robust sections on kidney cancer with data on the different stages, treatment options, survivorship, follow-up care and more. Its award-winning free mobile app includes a symptom and side effect tracker, medication reminders and other interactive resources. Of particular use are ASCO’s “Overview of Kidney Cancer,” “Guide to Kidney Cancer” and “ASCO Answers: Kidney Cancer.”
KidneyCAN
Inspired and created by patients, KidneyCAN supports underfunded research to accelerate cures for kidney cancer. Its patient resource center features informative videos and brochures to help patients cope with their diagnosis, get answers to common questions and determine next steps.
Kidney Cancer Association
The nonprofit Kidney Cancer Association comprises a global community of patients, caretakers and medical professionals dedicated to serving and empowering those with kidney cancer through education, advocacy and research. Its carefully crafted, trustworthy website features treatment center and clinical trial finders.
Kidney Cancer Research Alliance (KCCure)
KCCure, an evidence-based, patient-centered advocacy nonprofit “dedicated to improving outcomes through outreach, education and research,” offers support groups for patients and caregivers, along with information regarding clinical trials, research grants, educational materials and more.
National Cancer Institute
This site offers numerous kidney cancer fact sheets, statistics, treatment options and more, including pages devoted to advances in kidney cancer research and lists of approved drugs.
National Kidney Foundation
Beyond diagnosis, staging and treatment, the National Kidney Foundation provides a complete overview on kidney cancer, including information concerning nutrition and physical activity during treatment and alternative or complementary medicine. It also includes questions to ask your doctor, such as “How long will treatment last?” and “Are there any clinical trials I should think about?” Of note is the foundation’s section on kidney transplantation, which features videos and resources about organ donation and how to manage your health after a transplant.
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