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Kidney Cancer

Definition of kidney cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the kidneys. Kidney cancer includes renal cell carcinoma (cancer that forms in the lining of very small tubes in the kidney that filter the blood and remove waste products) and renal pelvis carcinoma (cancer that forms in the center of the kidney where urine collects). It also includes Wilms tumor, which is a type of kidney cancer that usually develops in children under the age of 5. 
Estimated new cases and deaths from kidney (renal cell and renal pelvis) cancer in the United States in 2012:


New cases: 64,770
Deaths: 13,570

See the online booklet What You Need To Know About™ Kidney Cancer to learn about kidney cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and questions to ask the doctor.

Prevention, Genetics, Causes

Information related to prevention, genetics, and risk factors

Screening and Testing

Information about methods of cancer detection including new imaging technologies, tumor markers, and biopsy procedures

Cancer Literature

Resources available from the PubMed database

Research and Related Information

Includes NCI-supported research, funding opportunities, and special reports

Related Pages

General Cancer Resources

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    Managing physical, emotional, and lifestyle effects of cancer and treatment on patients and families; also includes information on finances, insurance, and healthcare services.
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    Healing philosophies, approaches, and therapies used in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in cancer care.
  • Learn About Clinical Trials
    Basic to advanced information for all audiences about clinical trials. Learn about what clinical trials are, why they are important, and why people choose to take part. Also, learn strategies for educating others about the importance of clinical trials.