All About Pancreatic Cancer

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a formidable diagnosis, known for its silent progression and high mortality rate. In this blog, we will delve into the world of pancreatic cancer to help you understand this disease to raise awareness, promote early detection, and provide information on risk factors and prevention strategies.

The pancreas is a vital organ located behind the stomach, responsible for producing enzymes that aid in digestion and hormones like insulin that regulate blood sugar levels. Pancreatic cancer occurs when cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of malignant tumors.

Risk factors

While the exact cause of this cancer is often unknown, several factors may increase the risk:

Age: Pancreatic cancer is more common in older individuals, with the majority of cases diagnosed after the age of 65.
Family History: A family history of pancreatic cancer or certain genetic syndromes can increase the risk.
Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a well-established risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk.
Chronic Pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas is associated with an increased risk.
Obesity: Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle can help reduce the risk of many cancers, including pancreatic cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

One of the most challenging aspects of pancreatic cancer is its tendency to remain asymptomatic in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are often vague and can be mistaken for other less severe conditions.

Common symptoms include:

Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Unexplained weight loss.
New-onset diabetes or worsening of existing diabetes.
Loss of appetite and nausea.
Abdominal pain or discomfort, often radiating to the back.
Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or pale, foul-smelling stools.

It’s crucial to pay attention to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Imaging: Pancreatic protocol CT of the abdomen or PETCT will be done to assess the tumor and also to look for any distant spread to stage the disease.

Blood test: Tumor marker CA19-9 is done which will help in follow up.

If you require chemotherapy first then biopsy of the tumor will be done, usually via an endoscopic ultrasound guided (EUS) procedure.

The best chances for curing this dreaded cancer is with surgery, especially in early stages ( I & II). After surgery, depending on the final biopsy staging patients may require chemotherapy. If the tumor is advanced, we may suggest a few cycles of chemotherapy prior to surgery.

Pancreatic Cancer Surgical Procedures:

The type of surgery largely depends on the cancer’s location within the pancreas:

Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy): This is the most common procedure where the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine, a portion of the stomach, and other nearby tissues are removed.
Distal Pancreatectomy: In this procedure, the tail and sometimes a portion of the body of the pancreas are removed. The spleen may also be removed in some cases.
Median pancreatectomy: The central part of the pancreas is removed, leaving behind the head and part of the body and tail behind.
Total Pancreatectomy: This involves the removal of the entire pancreas, often along with the spleen, gallbladder, and parts of the stomach and small intestine.

Prevention

Preventing pancreatic cancer involves adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing risk factors:

Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quitting is the single most important step to reduce your risk.
Diet and Exercise: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Manage Chronic Conditions: If you have chronic pancreatitis, work with your healthcare provider to manage it effectively.

Conclusion

Pancreatic cancer is a formidable enemy, but with knowledge and early detection, we can improve the chances of successful treatment and prevention. By understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and adopting a healthy lifestyle, we can take proactive steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Raising awareness and sharing this information with your community can make a significant impact in the fight against pancreatic cancer. Let’s stand together and take action in the battle against this disease.