In short
Blood in your pee is the kidney cancer symptom you should never ignore, even if it happens once and does not hurt. A lump in the side, persistent back pain, or weight loss without trying also need a GP visit. About 13,000 people are diagnosed in the UK each year. Many cancers are found on a scan done for something else. See a GP about blood in the urine.
The kidneys sit under the ribcage at the back. Early kidney cancer often causes no pain. That is why visible or dipstick blood in urine is investigated.
Which symptoms should you report?
You do not need every item on the list. Blood in the urine alone is enough.
- Blood in your pee — even once, even if there is no pain
- A lump or swelling in your side or lower back
- Persistent pain in your side or back
- Weight loss, fevers or night sweats without a clear cause
Why is kidney cancer found by chance?
CT and ultrasound scans done for other reasons often pick up small kidney masses. Stage 1 survival is over 90%, which is why incidental findings are taken seriously rather than ignored.
Help a patient afford cancer care
Gifts go to the Cancer Emergency Appeal’s wider fund for patients who cannot pay. They do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Donate to cancer careDoes smoking raise kidney cancer risk?
Yes. Smoking is a major risk factor, along with obesity and high blood pressure. Stopping smoking still helps after a diagnosis.
Key takeaways
- Blood in the urine should be checked even once.
- Early kidney cancer is often silent.
- Stage 1 survival is over 90%.
Care like this is out of reach for millions
The diagnosis, screening and treatment described here are routine in the UK. In Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia, poverty can put them out of reach. The Cancer Emergency Appeal raises funds towards clinically recommended care for patients who cannot pay; gifts go to the wider fund and do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Frequently asked questions
Can a urine infection cause blood in pee?
Yes. Infections are common. GPs still investigate unexplained or repeating blood, especially in adults over 45.
Is pink urine always cancer?
No. Beetroot, medicines and infection can colour urine. Cancer is why it is still checked.
Do you fund kidney cancer surgery overseas?
When a partner urologist has recommended it for a patient who cannot pay.
Editorial summary of published sources. A named oncology clinician has not signed off this guide. Use it to prepare questions for your healthcare team, not to diagnose symptoms or choose treatment. Editorial responsibility: Kaiser Khan. Updated 4 October 2026.
What are the sources for this guide?
Follow the original guidance for its evidence, dates and limitations. General background references are not a clinical review of this page.