Kidney cancer, medically known as renal cancer, primarily affects the kidneys by causing various alterations in their normal structure and function. These changes can lead to significant health implications for individuals diagnosed with the disease.

The kidneys play a vital role in filtering blood, removing waste, and regulating fluid balance in the body. When cancerous tumors develop in the kidneys, they can disrupt these essential functions. One common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma, which starts in the lining of the kidney's tubules. This type of cancer often grows within the kidney, potentially leading to the following effects:

• Size and Pressure: Tumors can increase kidney size, exerting pressure on surrounding tissues and organs. As the tumor grows, it may also obstruct urine flow, causing painful swelling and further complications.
• Weight Loss and Fatigue: Kidney cancer can result in unintentional weight loss, coupled with a persistent fatigue that affects the overall quality of life. The body's struggle to cope with the tumor and its effects contributes to these symptoms.
• Hematuria: One of the standout symptoms of kidney cancer is the presence of blood in urine, known as hematuria. This can occur when the tumor invades blood vessels, leading to bleeding, which can be alarming for patients.
• Kidney Function Impairment: As cancer progresses, it can interfere significantly with the kidney's ability to filter waste effectively. This can lead to a dangerous buildup of toxins in the body, resulting in kidney dysfunction.
• Metastasis: In advanced stages, kidney cancer can metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, bones, and liver. This not only complicates treatment but also poses further risks to kidney health.

Additionally, kidney cancer can impact the body's hormonal balance. The kidneys produce hormones that regulate blood pressure and red blood cell production. Tumors can release these hormones inappropriately, leading to further complications like hypertension and anemia.

Treatment options for kidney cancer vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease. Surgical interventions, such as nephrectomy (removal of the kidney), targeted therapies, and immunotherapies are common approaches aimed at managing the cancer while preserving kidney function. However, the effectiveness of treatment can vary, and early detection plays a critical role in outcomes.

In conclusion, kidney cancer significantly affects the kidneys by altering their size, function, and the overall health of the individual. Understanding these impacts is essential for early detection, timely treatment, and improving patient quality of life.