Pancreatic Cancer
All Type of Cancers
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About Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive disease that begins in the pancreas, a vital organ responsible for digestion and blood sugar regulation. It often progresses silently, making early detection difficult and treatment challenging. Due to its rapid spread, it is one of the most life-threatening cancers, requiring advanced medical interventions. Research and new therapies are improving survival rates and treatment options. Raising awareness and promoting early screenings can help improve outcomes.
Causes of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, often due to genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are major risk factors that contribute to cellular damage. Obesity, diabetes, and chronic pancreatitis increase inflammation in the pancreas, raising cancer risk. A family history of pancreatic cancer or inherited genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) can also play a role. Additionally, high-fat diets, processed foods, and exposure to certain chemicals have been linked to an increased likelihood of developing this cancer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular medical check-ups can help reduce the risk.
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
- Jaundice – skin and eye yellowing brought on by bile duct obstruction.
- Unexplained Weight Loss – quick weight loss without dietary or exercise adjustments.
- Abdominal & Back Pain – chronic upper abdominal pain that could radiate to the back.
- Loss of Appetite & Nausea – Feeling full quickly, along with indigestion and nausea.
- Dark Urine & Pale Stools – Changes in urine and stool color due to bile obstruction.
Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is diagnosed using various tests to detect tumors and assess their spread.
- Imaging Tests – CT scan, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) help visualize tumors in the pancreas.
- Blood Tests (CA 19-9 Tumor Marker) – Measures a protein that may be elevated in pancreatic cancer cases.
- Biopsy – A small tissue sample is taken via fine-needle aspiration (FNA) for laboratory analysis.
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – A special endoscopy procedure to examine the bile and pancreatic ducts.
- Laparoscopy – A minimally invasive surgery to check for cancer spread in the abdomen.
Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer treatment depends on the stage of cancer, tumor location, and overall health of the patient. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy), distal pancreatectomy, or total pancreatectomy may be performed to remove the tumor.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation targets and destroys cancer cells, often used before or after surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells, sometimes combined with radiation (chemoradiation).
- Hormone Therapy: Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, used in certain cases with genetic markers.
- Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific genetic mutations in cancer cells to slow tumor growth.