Description

ancreatic cancer is a serious and often aggressive form of cancer that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach. It is known for being difficult to detect early and often has a poor prognosis. Here’s a detailed overview: What is Pancreatic Cancer? Pancreatic cancer occurs when cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The pancreas has two main functions: Exocrine function: Produces enzymes that help digest food. Endocrine function: Produces hormones like insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar. Most pancreatic cancers (about 95%) are adenocarcinomas, which start in the exocrine cells. Less common types include neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), which arise from endocrine cells. Risk Factors The exact cause of pancreatic cancer is unknown, but several factors increase the risk: Age: Most cases occur in people over 65. Smoking: A major risk factor. Obesity: Increases the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. Diabetes: Especially long-standing or recently diagnosed diabetes. Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas. Family history: Inherited genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2) or a family history of pancreatic cancer. Diet: High consumption of red and processed meats. Alcohol: Heavy alcohol use may increase risk. Race: African Americans have a slightly higher risk. Symptoms Pancreatic cancer is often called a "silent disease" because symptoms usually appear only after the cancer has advanced. Common symptoms include: Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to blocked bile ducts. Abdominal pain: Often radiates to the back. Unexplained weight loss: Significant and unintentional. Loss of appetite. Nausea and vomiting. Fatigue. New-onset diabetes: Especially in older adults. Light-colored stools and dark urine: Due to bile duct obstruction. Diagnosis Early detection is challenging, but diagnostic tools include: Imaging tests: CT scan: Provides detailed images of the pancreas. MRI: Helps evaluate the pancreas and surrounding tissues. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): Combines endoscopy and ultrasound to visualize the pancreas. Biopsy: Removing a small tissue sample for examination. Blood tests: Checking for tumor markers like CA 19-9 (though not specific to pancreatic cancer). ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): Used to examine and treat bile duct blockages. Stages of Pancreatic Cancer Pancreatic cancer is staged based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis (spread to other organs): Stage I: Localized to the pancreas. Stage II: Spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes. Stage III: Spread to major blood vessels or more lymph nodes. Stage IV: Metastasized to distant organs (e.g., liver, lungs). Treatment Treatment depends on the stage, location, and overall health of the patient: Surgery: Whipple procedure: Removes the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine, and other nearby tissues. Distal pancreatectomy: Removes the tail and body of the pancreas. Total pancreatectomy: Removes the entire pancreas. Chemotherapy: Often used before or after surgery, or for advanced cancer. Radiation therapy: May be combined with chemotherapy. Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations. Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system fight cancer (less common for pancreatic cancer). Palliative care: Focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Prognosis Pancreatic cancer has a low survival rate due to late diagnosis and aggressive nature: 5-year survival rate: Approximately 12% for all stages combined. If detected early and localized, the 5-year survival rate is about 44%, but most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Prevention While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent pancreatic cancer, reducing risk factors can help: Avoid smoking. Maintain a healthy weight. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit alcohol consumption. Manage diabetes and chronic pancreatitis. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms or has risk factors for pancreatic cancer, consult our Pancreatic Specialist Doctor Dr. Snehal Makeshwar at his Gastro Cure Clinic, Panchsheel Square Nagpur, for evaluation and screening. Early detection can improve outcomes. Let me know if you have more questions!

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