Overview
Pancreatic cancer is a condition characterized by abnormal cell growth on the pancreas. It strikes men and women of all ages and ethnicities and although it accounts for just 2% of cancer cases it is the fourth highest in terms of fatalities making it one of the most lethal forms of cancer.
The main reason that pancreatic cancer is among the most deadly is that it is generally diagnosed much later than most other cancers. This is largely due to the pancreas being located behind the stomach and therefore difficult
to examine without surgery. Because of its lack of noticeable symptoms it is often too late for treatment once it has been detected. Often by the time of diagnosis the cancer has already spread to other internal organs.
Causes
There is no single cause of pancreatic cancer. However according to the Canadian Cancer Society these factors appear to increase the risk of developing it: - age - particularly after 50
- smoking
- a diet that is low in vegetables fruits and fibre
- obesity
- workplace exposure to gasoline manufacturing processes
- family history of cancer
Some people develop pancreatic cancer without any of these risk factors. Symptoms
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often vague and can easily be mistaken for more common illnesses. The following symptoms may or may not be a sign of pancreatic cancer. Tell your doctor if you have: - abdominal pain
- appetite loss
- belching and hiccups
- bloating
- constipation
- depression
- diarrhea
- jaundice
- nausea and vomiting
- poor digestion
- unexplained severe weight loss
- weakness
Pancreatic cancer has been known to cause diabetes as the tumors can hamper the production of insulin in the pancreas.
Jaundice occurs because tumors place pressure on the common bile duct.
Treatment
The ability to treat pancreatic cancer is dependent on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Treatment options include: - Chemotherapy
- Surgical removal of affected areas
- Drug therapy (including: bevacizumab tipifarnib Gemcitabine etuximab erlotinib)
Prevention To help prevent pancreatic cancer it is best to avoid known risk factors such as smoking tobacco and consuming large amounts of red meat. Eat a health diet that includes whole grains vegetables and fruit. It is also important to maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle with plenty of exercise. | 