Some of the most common pancreatic cancer symptoms can be subtle, even in advanced stages. (Representational Image: Shutterstock)
Pancreatic cancer is rare and often goes undiagnosed without symptoms, but when it is diagnosed, it may be at an advanced stage.
Pancreatic cancer is rare and often goes undiagnosed without symptoms, but when it is diagnosed, it may be at an advanced stage.
Pancreatic cancer occurs when cells in the pancreas begin to grow out of control and form a mass, or tumor. Pancreatic cancer is broadly of two types – exocrine and neuroendocrine. The most common type of exocrine pancreatic cancer, also known as adenocarcinoma, begins in the ducts of the pancreas.
The main function of the pancreas is to release enzymes that aid in the digestion of food and to produce hormones such as insulin and glucagon that help manage your blood sugar levels.
Let us know the early signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer, its complications, risk factors, treatment and prevention measures.
Symptoms and Complications
Change in stool, color becomes green or light brown
Yellowing of the eyes and skin and dark urine due to jaundice
– abdominal pain that spreads to your back
Sudden weight loss or loss of appetite
– tiredness or fatigue
– Blood clotting in the body
Who is at greater risk?
Older people (above 65 years), people newly diagnosed with or advanced stage of diabetes, those who smoke or consume alcoholic beverages, people with a family history of pancreatic cancer, those who are obese or have a poor diet And individuals with chronic pancreatitis (permanent inflammation of the pancreas) have a higher risk of pancreatic cancer.
How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect in the early stages. An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is performed to diagnose the tumor. The EUS is a thin tube with a camera that is passed through the mouth into the abdomen to take a tissue sample (biopsy) from the pancreas. A blood test may also find substances known as tumor markers.
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Can pancreatic cancer spread quickly?
Pancreatic cancer is rare and often goes undiagnosed without symptoms, but when it is diagnosed, it may be at an advanced stage. Pancreatic cancer can commonly spread to the liver. It may also spread within the abdomen, to the lungs, or to nearby lymph nodes.
pancreatic cancer treatment
Treatment depends on a few things, including where the tumor forms, what stage it is in, and how healthy you are to have treatment. Some treatment options are: surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Tips to prevent the risk of getting pancreatic cancer
– One can convert their sedentary lifestyle into a healthy lifestyle
Try to quit smoking, don’t drink too much alcohol
– Maintain your weight by exercising and eating healthy
Avoid eating sweet things. Control your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
– If you have a family history of pancreatic cancer, consult a specialist/doctor.
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