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Clear cell renal carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer, and stage four is the most serious, meaning it has spread to another part of the body.

Doctors learned he had clear cell renal cell carcinoma that had metastasized to his lungs.

"You would never have that for other specialities like cardiology or renal so why should it happen for palliative care?"

Blood tests also showed he had "initial, mild, renal insufficiency" - a kidney problem - that is "currently under control", the statement said.

It is not the first time that the renal team at Belfast City Hospital has made headlines.