Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is kidney cancer?
A: Kidney cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma) is cancer that forms in tissues of the kidneys. These changes lead to uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells which proliferate quickly destroying normal tissue.
 
Q: Which kidney cancers are the most common?
A: Clear cell carcinoma, papillary carcinoma, sacromatoid.
 
Q: Where are kidneys located? 
A: Majority of people have two kidney. They are located in the posterior part of the abdomen. There is one on each side of the spine.
 
Q: What are the major functions of kidneys?
A: The kidneys' main function is to filter the blood and rid the body of excess water, salt, and waste products. The filtered waste products are concentrated into urine. Urine leaves the kidneys through long slender tubes called ureters that connect to the bladder. Urine flows down the ureters into the bladder, where it is stored until urination.
 
Q: Can people survive with one kidney?
A: Most people are equipped with two working kidneys. However, people can survive with only one healthy kidney to perform their major function of excreting waste products from the body.
 
Q: How do people function with only one kidney?
A: There are no adverse effects with having only one kidney. However, one must protect that kidney by avoiding sports, stay well hydrated, and eat regular diet.