James Whale dead: Kidney cancer symptoms you should know include subtle urine colour change

Broadcaster James Whale, who shared his long battle with kidney cancer, has died aged 76 after moving into a hospice.

James, known for his decades-long career on radio and television, first went public with hiskidney cancer diagnosis in the early 2000sand later revealed the disease had returned and spread to his spine and brain. Throughout his illness, he became a passionate advocate for awareness, urging others to “listen to their bodies” and push for answers when something feels off.

Now, health experts are reminding the people to watch out for warning signs of kidney cancer, with early diagnosis vital in treating the illness. One of the key signs of the cancer is finding blood in your urine, which might make it turn a reddish colour. It comes after Strictly's Anton Du Beke shared heartbreak over wife's 'cruel and inexplicable' diagnosis.

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Early symptoms

Kidney cancer is notoriously difficult to detect in its early stages. Unlike some cancers, it doesn’t always present with obvious symptoms. But according to the NHS and Cancer Research UK, there are several key signs to watch for, and changes to urine can be one of the earliest clues.

1. Blood in urine

This can appear as pink, rusty, or brown-coloured urine - a change so subtle it might be missed or mistaken for dehydration or dietary changes.

2. Persistent pain in the lower back or side

Pain near the kidneys that doesn’t seem connected to movement or injury can be a sign of a problem. It may be dull or sharp and usually occurs on one side.

3. Fatigue and unexplained weight loss

Feeling unusually tired, weak, or dropping weight without changes to diet or exercise may signal something more serious.

4. Persistent fever

Low-grade fevers that don’t have a clear cause, and come and go, can sometimes be linked to kidney cancers.

5. Swelling or lumps in the abdomen

Although not always visible, a growing tumour may cause a lump or swelling around the kidneys.

Who's at risk?

Kidney cancer is more common in people over 60 and affects men more than women. Smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and a family history of kidney disease are all known risk factors. James Whale himself was a long-time smoker, which he later revealed when discussing his diagnosis.

Each year, more than 13,000 people are diagnosed with kidney cancer in the UK, and while survival rates have improved with early detection and new treatments, awareness remains critical.

James Whale used his platform not only to entertain but to educate. Following his first diagnosis in 2000, he founded the James Whale Fund for Kidney Cancer, now merged with Kidney Cancer UK, helping countless others navigate the illness and access information.

When to see a doctor

If you notice blood in your urine, even once, or experience any of the symptoms listed above - particularly in combination - book an appointment with your GP. While these signs may point to less serious conditions, early detection is key in improving outcomes for kidney cancer patients.

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