Kidney Cancer

Advanced care and treatment for renal cancer

A smiling middle-aged African-American man on a park bench represents the full life that can be led after kidney cancer treatment.

Advanced care and treatment for renal cancer

Scripps Cancer Center is a leader in caring for people with genitourinary cancers, including kidney cancer. Our oncology specialists treat kidney cancer with advanced therapies designed to eliminate cancer and prevent recurrence, including minimally invasive surgery that uses small incisions, potentially resulting in shorter hospital stays and a faster recovery, and immunotherapy to harness the power of the body’s own immune system. In addition, Scripps is internationally recognized for kidney transplantation expertise.

About kidney cancer

Kidney cancer is a genitourinary cancer that starts in the kidneys, the two bean-shaped organs attached to the back wall of the abdomen. Also known as renal cancer, kidney cancer is among the top 10 most common cancers in women and men.


The average age of kidney cancer diagnosis is 64. The disease is rarely found in people younger than 45. The lifetime risk for developing kidney cancer is about 1 in 63. Men have a higher risk than women.

Kidney cancer symptoms, diagnosis and stages

As with most cancers, the earlier kidney cancer is found, the more likely it is to be successfully treated. Learn more about kidney cancer symptoms, diagnostic testing and stages below.

Treatment and clinical trials

When you’ve been diagnosed with kidney cancer, you want a team of expert cancer specialists on your side. Scripps Cancer Center's multidisciplinary oncology teams fight kidney cancer using the latest evidence-based treatments and therapies. Surgery is part of nearly every kidney cancer treatment plan, and whenever possible, Scripps surgeons will use advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques to minimize your discomfort, and reduce your hospital stay and recovery time.

Kidney cancer treatment locations

Scripps diagnoses and treats kidney cancer at numerous locations throughout San Diego County. From Chula Vista and La Jolla to Encinitas and beyond, our extensive network of Southern California cancer care centers includes:


  • Four Scripps hospitals on five campuses
  • Outpatient clinics
  • Specialty cancer treatment centers


We are now offering Video Visits for some specialty care appointments. If you are interested in scheduling a Video Visit, contact the provider’s office directly. The doctor’s office will work with you to determine if this is the right type of visit for you.


For details on specific centers and their services, visit cancer care locations.

Support groups, services and resources

As leaders in kidney cancer care, we know what it takes to fight a winning battle. That’s why we equip our patients with the support and resources necessary to achieve their best possible outcome. From connecting you with support groups and services to empowering you with the latest resources and research, Scripps offers a comprehensive lineup to help you along every step of your cancer journey.