We’re proud to share the first dedicated kidney cancer guideline published by NICE – National Institute for Health and Care Excellence – a major milestone that Kidney Cancer UK has tirelessly campaigned for.
Read the full article here.
New Guidance on Kidney Cancer Care – What This Means for You
We’re sharing an important update from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which outlines what people with kidney cancer should expect from their care.
These guidelines are designed to make sure everyone receives high-quality, personalised, and timely support throughout their journey.
What you should expect from your care
The new guidance focuses on making sure:
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Kidney cancer is diagnosed as quickly and accurately as possible
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You are fully informed about your treatment options
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Care is tailored to your individual needs
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You and your loved ones receive the right support and information
Treatment options explained
Depending on your diagnosis, you may be offered:
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Surgery – to remove part or all of the kidney
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Active surveillance – regular scans to monitor the tumour
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Ablation – using heat or cold to destroy cancer cells
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Radiotherapy – using targeted radiation
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Drug treatments – to reduce the risk of cancer returning or treat advanced cancer
Your healthcare team should explain the benefits and risks of each option so you can decide what’s right for you.
Making decisions together
A key message from NICE is that you should be at the centre of all decisions about your care.
You should be supported to understand:
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Your diagnosis, stage, and prognosis
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How treatment may affect your daily life, work, and wellbeing
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Possible side effects and how to manage them
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What happens if you choose not to have treatment
You can also:
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Bring a family member or friend to appointments
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Ask for information in a way that suits your needs
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Take time to ask questions and reflect on your options
Additional support you may be offered
Your care team may also discuss:
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Genetic testing if there’s a possible inherited risk
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Support for symptoms and side effects
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Access to emotional, practical, and financial support
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A clear care plan so you know what to expect next
Remember – you are not alone
Support is available if you need it. You can contact:
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Kidney Cancer UK – 0800 002 9002
If you ever feel unsure about your care or need help understanding your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team or contact us.
