Kidney (Renal Cell) Cancer What is kidney cancer? Kidney cancer
starts when abnormal cells grow out of control in one or both
kidneys. The Reference kidneys Opens New Window Reference Opens
New Window are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of
the spine, just below the ribs. They filter wastes from the
blood and help balance water, salt, and mineral levels in the
blood. Another name for kidney cancer is renal cancer. "Renal"
means having to do with the kidney. Kidney cancer that is found
early often can be successfully treated. But when it isn't found
early, the cancer may spread, or metastasize, to other parts of
the body, such as the lymph nodes, the lungs, the bones, or the
liver. What causes kidney cancer? Experts aren't sure what
causes kidney cancer. But there are certain things that make you
more likely to get this cancer. Your risk is higher if you: -
Smoke. Experts estimate that around 24 to 30 out of 100 cases of
kidney cancer are directly related to smoking.Reference 2 - Have
a job that r