Learn More About Kidney Cancer and Health

Get the facts on kidney cancer from our trusted cancer centers in NJ. This information can empower you to receive the highest care possible from our team of oncologists, specialists and more.

• The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located in the middle to lower area of the back.
• One kidney is located on each side of the spine.
• The function of the kidneys are to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. They also control blood pressure and help ensure enough red blood cells in the body. The waste is sent as urine to the bladder through thin tubes called ureters.
• Several layers of cells make up the kidney.
• More than 60,000 people in the U.S. are told they have kidney cancer each year.
• Men are more likely to get kidney cancer than women.
• Risk factors for kidney cancer include smoking, obesity, family history, having Von Hippel-Lindau disease, and being in regular contact with chemicals such as cadmium, benzene or asbestos.
• About 50 percent of kidney cancer patients have blood in their urine, which is detected by doing a test called a urinalysis.